Winter Wingman Day today
Winter Wingman Day is just around the corner. It is slated for today all day and will be held at numerous locations around base. For more updates continue to check the base Facebook page.
The following facilities will be closed today:
19th Airlift Wing Pharmacy
19th Airlift Wing Legal Office
19th Airlift Wing Finance
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The following MSG Customer Services will be closed on Wingman Day:
CES: Production Control (Helpdesk), calls will be forwarded to Fire Dept and Fire Dept will call the appropriate shop’s standby phone
FSS: Manpower and Personnel Flight, appointments will be rescheduled as necessary; in case of urgent personnel situation, contact Lt. Collins at (501)454-5013.
FSS: Fitness Center, will operate on 24/7 Fitness for registered users
FSS: POD will be closed, DFAC available for ESM customers only
CS: Comm Focal Point, will be available via the standby phone, will send out NOTAM with standby phone number
SFS: Pass and ID, same services available at Visitor’s Center except for DBIDs cards and Restricted Area badges
The following MSG Customer Services will have minimum manning/decreased services on Wingman Day:
FSS: DFAC will operate two main lines and a snack line for ESM customers only
LRS: TMO will be min manned
LRS: Mobile Maintenance will be min manned
LRS: Vehicle Ops will be min manned
LRS: Supply will be min manned
LRS: Fuel Service Center will be min manned
Munitions Storage Area closure
The Munitions Storage Area will be closed for semi-annual inventory March 3 through 14. Only emergency issues will be processed during this time frame and must be approved in writing by the maintenance group commander. Please direct any question to Master Sgt. Patrick Dunlap at (501) 987-6031.
Thrift shop reopens Feb. 18
The Thrift Shop will reopen in the same location Feb. 18 for shopping and donations. Consignment begins March 1. For more information, visit www.littlerockspouses.com.
Parenting class offered
A 1-2-3 Magic Parenting Class is set for 1 to 4 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 13 and 20 at the Family Advocacy Office. To register, call (501) 987-7377.
Friday, December 20, 2013
TOP STORY >> Holiday season CAF health tips
By Staff Sgt. Russ Scalf
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The holiday season is finally at hand. Over the next few weeks members of Team Little Rock will place their email accounts on autopilot, take a break and spend time with friends and loved ones.
For many, as the song goes, “it’s the most wonderful time of the year.” Yet others have a difficult time managing the various stressors that can accompany the festivities. Utilizing a few concepts everyone is already familiar with can help one not only survive the holidays, but thrive.
This time of year is never lacking for social engagements. From squadron parties, to grandmother’s house we go, you should always go with a plan. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, each year the number of alcohol-related highway fatalities spikes dramatically over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.
“Over the last two years, 75 percent of holiday season fatalities are private-motor-vehicle related,” said James Yowell, the ground safety manager for the 314th Airlift Wing. “When hosting a party, as a host you have responsibilities to protect your guests,” he said.
Yowell went on to say being a responsible host includes things like providing food, non-alcoholic beverages, sleeping arrangements or a sober designated driver to get them home. Another tip he provided was to cut off access to alcohol about two hours before the end of your party. Yowell said that if you take those steps you can reduce the likelihood of an accident by about 90 percent.
“As individuals we’re responsible to make a plan and stick to it,” said Yowell. “If that plan fails, get help, call a friend who hasn’t been drinking or Airmen Against Drunk Driving, anything besides getting behind the wheel. This is a season for happiness, we should all do our part to make sure everyone gets home safely.”
The holiday season can present a multitude of ups and downs, but your waist measurement doesn’t have to be one of them. Remember that it’s ok to say no to mom’s cookies, and dad could probably use a lap around the neighborhood to look at lights with you.
“You’re going to be out of your normal element, so make sure you’re at least getting up and moving around,” said Aaron Leach, a Little Rock Air Force Base physiologist. “Whether you’re stuck in an airport, a hotel, or you’re stuck at your in-laws, get up and move around. The holidays can be pretty stressful, so instead of choosing destructive coping methods try dealing with it in a healthy way. You can find a gym, go out for a run, or in my case I’ll be making couch forts and having pillow fights with my kids.”
There can also be great demands on our time and agendas during the holidays. Whether you’re traveling from Arkansas to Albany, or making the decision to stay in the local area this year, its important to take some time for yourself and maintain your spiritual fitness.
“I would encourage individuals to exercise their spiritual fitness and faith,” said chaplain Maj. Randall Jamieson, a 19th Airlift Wing chaplain. “Its important to exercise your faith and attend worship services. I would also encourage people to spend time with their family and friends as much as they’re able to, but look for other sources of support if they’re unable to make it home. It’s a time for reflection, a time to re-evaluate and look for inspiration and peace.”
If you find yourself struggling to find the perfect gift or feel like somebody forgot to put you on his or her list, you’re not alone. It would be easy to fill a stocking with all of the expectations we put on others and ourselves during the holidays.
If you feel like you need someone to talk to, one source might be the military family life counselor at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. The MFLC can provide a confidential consultation by a licensed therapist to any active-duty Airman or their dependents. The Little Rock Air Force Base MFLC reports that stress around the holidays is a common occurrence, and that everyone has stress, but it’s how you handle that stress that is unique.
“Stress can actually be a good thing, but when you become overwhelmed by it, can’t breathe, and can no longer function or sleep adequately, that is the time to see someone about it,” said Sharon Thompson, chief of the Airman and Family Readiness Center. “Just because it’s a holiday it doesn’t necessarily mean you should be happy, and that expectation can be an additional stressor. One tip to relieve stress is to take your shoes off and curl your toes on the carpet. When you are able to reconnect with your body and senses, your brain has to switch modes, and it acts as a temporary stress reliever.”
If you would like additional resources, visit the Air Mobility Command Comprehensive Airman Fitness link at http://www.amc.af.mil/caf/.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The holiday season is finally at hand. Over the next few weeks members of Team Little Rock will place their email accounts on autopilot, take a break and spend time with friends and loved ones.
For many, as the song goes, “it’s the most wonderful time of the year.” Yet others have a difficult time managing the various stressors that can accompany the festivities. Utilizing a few concepts everyone is already familiar with can help one not only survive the holidays, but thrive.
This time of year is never lacking for social engagements. From squadron parties, to grandmother’s house we go, you should always go with a plan. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, each year the number of alcohol-related highway fatalities spikes dramatically over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.
“Over the last two years, 75 percent of holiday season fatalities are private-motor-vehicle related,” said James Yowell, the ground safety manager for the 314th Airlift Wing. “When hosting a party, as a host you have responsibilities to protect your guests,” he said.
Yowell went on to say being a responsible host includes things like providing food, non-alcoholic beverages, sleeping arrangements or a sober designated driver to get them home. Another tip he provided was to cut off access to alcohol about two hours before the end of your party. Yowell said that if you take those steps you can reduce the likelihood of an accident by about 90 percent.
“As individuals we’re responsible to make a plan and stick to it,” said Yowell. “If that plan fails, get help, call a friend who hasn’t been drinking or Airmen Against Drunk Driving, anything besides getting behind the wheel. This is a season for happiness, we should all do our part to make sure everyone gets home safely.”
The holiday season can present a multitude of ups and downs, but your waist measurement doesn’t have to be one of them. Remember that it’s ok to say no to mom’s cookies, and dad could probably use a lap around the neighborhood to look at lights with you.
“You’re going to be out of your normal element, so make sure you’re at least getting up and moving around,” said Aaron Leach, a Little Rock Air Force Base physiologist. “Whether you’re stuck in an airport, a hotel, or you’re stuck at your in-laws, get up and move around. The holidays can be pretty stressful, so instead of choosing destructive coping methods try dealing with it in a healthy way. You can find a gym, go out for a run, or in my case I’ll be making couch forts and having pillow fights with my kids.”
There can also be great demands on our time and agendas during the holidays. Whether you’re traveling from Arkansas to Albany, or making the decision to stay in the local area this year, its important to take some time for yourself and maintain your spiritual fitness.
“I would encourage individuals to exercise their spiritual fitness and faith,” said chaplain Maj. Randall Jamieson, a 19th Airlift Wing chaplain. “Its important to exercise your faith and attend worship services. I would also encourage people to spend time with their family and friends as much as they’re able to, but look for other sources of support if they’re unable to make it home. It’s a time for reflection, a time to re-evaluate and look for inspiration and peace.”
If you find yourself struggling to find the perfect gift or feel like somebody forgot to put you on his or her list, you’re not alone. It would be easy to fill a stocking with all of the expectations we put on others and ourselves during the holidays.
If you feel like you need someone to talk to, one source might be the military family life counselor at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. The MFLC can provide a confidential consultation by a licensed therapist to any active-duty Airman or their dependents. The Little Rock Air Force Base MFLC reports that stress around the holidays is a common occurrence, and that everyone has stress, but it’s how you handle that stress that is unique.
“Stress can actually be a good thing, but when you become overwhelmed by it, can’t breathe, and can no longer function or sleep adequately, that is the time to see someone about it,” said Sharon Thompson, chief of the Airman and Family Readiness Center. “Just because it’s a holiday it doesn’t necessarily mean you should be happy, and that expectation can be an additional stressor. One tip to relieve stress is to take your shoes off and curl your toes on the carpet. When you are able to reconnect with your body and senses, your brain has to switch modes, and it acts as a temporary stress reliever.”
If you would like additional resources, visit the Air Mobility Command Comprehensive Airman Fitness link at http://www.amc.af.mil/caf/.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
BRIEFS>>12-13-13
Housing seeks dorm leader
The Little Rock Air Force Base Housing Office is seeking a highly motivated Master Sergeant or Master Sergeant select, for the 8H000, “Superintendent, Airman Dorm Leader” special duty position. This position is a two-year controlled tour, with an option to extend for a third year, and has a report not later than date of May 1, 2014.
Applicants must be of good moral character, have a history demonstrating the highest caliber of professionalism and be committed to mentoring first term Airmen. Applicants must submit their last three Enlisted Performance Reports, a letter of endorsement from their Commander, and a 300-word essay on how they feel they can make a difference as an Airman Dorm Leader.
Applicants should place all documents in a sealed 8 1/2” x 11” envelope placing rank and name on the front center of the envelope and hand carry to the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron in building 528 or email all documents to jessica.foiles@us.af.mil no later than Jan. 15. Interviews will take place Jan. 20 – 24.
For more information, call the Little Rock Housing Element Chief’s office at 987-2358.
Medical Group closures planned
The 19th Medical Group will be closed on the following dates.
Noon to 4:30 p.m., Dec. 18 for training;
Dec. 25, in observance of Christmas;
Dec. 26, in observance of an AMC holiday;
Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day.
Tax Center volunteers needed
The Tax Center is currently requesting volunteers for the upcoming 2013 tax season. If you are interested in becoming a Tax Center volunteer or have any questions about the VITA program, please call Capt. Timothy Bennett or Airman 1st Class Blake Johnson at the Legal Office at (501) 987-7886.
The Little Rock Air Force Base Tax Center will open its doors Feb. 4, 2014, for the 2013 tax season. During the 2012 tax season, the Little Rock AFB Tax Center completed 1,303 tax returns for Team Little Rock, resulting in refunds totaling $1.4 million.
All of these savings were made possible by volunteers who kept the Tax Center functioning. Tax Center volunteers are trained through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, receiving valuable education on completion of federal and state tax returns.
At the conclusion of the VITA training, volunteers qualify as certified tax preparers, a crucial skill for managing their own financial affairs. Whether answering phones or completing returns, volunteers are instrumental in meeting the tax filing needs for hundreds of active duty, reservists, dependents, and retirees from the surrounding area.
Training is tentatively scheduled for the week of Dec. 16.
Ordering CCAF transcripts
If you are ordering Community College of the Air Force transcripts, CCAF is experiencing technical difficulties. Two available options are:
1) Mail a letter to CCAF requesting a transcript which also will need to include your full name, the last four of your SSN, your Date of Birth, and the address you wish your transcript to be sent to. NOTE: Ensure the letter is physically SIGNED by the member to release their record. The address to CCAF is:
Community College of the Air Force
100 South Turner Blvd.
Maxwell AFB, Gunter Annex AL 36114-3011
2) Credentials, INC. does overnight and regular delivery using their service called TranscriptPLUS for a fee.
This service can be found at https://www.credentials-inc.com/cgi-bin/dvcgitp.pgm?ALUMTRO012308.
CCAF progress report available
The Student Degree Plan allows CCAF students immediate information, degree program status, degree requirements and student records. Members can obtain their CCAF Progress Report on their AF Virtual Ed Center.
TRICARE and new health care reform impact explained
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) is designed to expand access to health care coverage, by lowering costs, improving quality while expanding care coordination for all Americans. PPACA requires all citizens to have health insurance or other health care coverage that meets the definition of minimum essential coverage (MEC) by Jan. 1, 2014. People who do not meet MEC will be required to pay a fee when filing their 2014 tax returns.
TRICARE programs, to include Prime, Standard, Prime Remote, TRICARE Reserve
Select, TRICARE Young Adult, and TRICARE Retired Reserve meet the requirements of MEC as long as you maintain your TRICARE enrollment. You can access information on these programs at www.tricare.mil. However, there are two very small populations that do not meet the requirements of MEC under TRICARE: those receiving care for line of duty only related conditions and those that are only eligible to receive care in military treatment facilities.
Beneficiaries are required to maintain DEERS information at the Military Personnel Element, since DEERS determines your eligibility for TRICARE.
DEERS will be the source of information that will be accessed to validate that you and your family members have health care coverage that meets the definition of MEC.
The bottom line is PPACA will not impact TRICARE beneficiaries with the exception of an extra letter or two delivered to your home and the additional box to check on tax forms every year. If you need more information on this program please visit www.tricare.mil/aca.
The Little Rock Air Force Base Housing Office is seeking a highly motivated Master Sergeant or Master Sergeant select, for the 8H000, “Superintendent, Airman Dorm Leader” special duty position. This position is a two-year controlled tour, with an option to extend for a third year, and has a report not later than date of May 1, 2014.
Applicants must be of good moral character, have a history demonstrating the highest caliber of professionalism and be committed to mentoring first term Airmen. Applicants must submit their last three Enlisted Performance Reports, a letter of endorsement from their Commander, and a 300-word essay on how they feel they can make a difference as an Airman Dorm Leader.
Applicants should place all documents in a sealed 8 1/2” x 11” envelope placing rank and name on the front center of the envelope and hand carry to the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron in building 528 or email all documents to jessica.foiles@us.af.mil no later than Jan. 15. Interviews will take place Jan. 20 – 24.
For more information, call the Little Rock Housing Element Chief’s office at 987-2358.
Medical Group closures planned
The 19th Medical Group will be closed on the following dates.
Noon to 4:30 p.m., Dec. 18 for training;
Dec. 25, in observance of Christmas;
Dec. 26, in observance of an AMC holiday;
Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day.
Tax Center volunteers needed
The Tax Center is currently requesting volunteers for the upcoming 2013 tax season. If you are interested in becoming a Tax Center volunteer or have any questions about the VITA program, please call Capt. Timothy Bennett or Airman 1st Class Blake Johnson at the Legal Office at (501) 987-7886.
The Little Rock Air Force Base Tax Center will open its doors Feb. 4, 2014, for the 2013 tax season. During the 2012 tax season, the Little Rock AFB Tax Center completed 1,303 tax returns for Team Little Rock, resulting in refunds totaling $1.4 million.
All of these savings were made possible by volunteers who kept the Tax Center functioning. Tax Center volunteers are trained through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, receiving valuable education on completion of federal and state tax returns.
At the conclusion of the VITA training, volunteers qualify as certified tax preparers, a crucial skill for managing their own financial affairs. Whether answering phones or completing returns, volunteers are instrumental in meeting the tax filing needs for hundreds of active duty, reservists, dependents, and retirees from the surrounding area.
Training is tentatively scheduled for the week of Dec. 16.
Ordering CCAF transcripts
If you are ordering Community College of the Air Force transcripts, CCAF is experiencing technical difficulties. Two available options are:
1) Mail a letter to CCAF requesting a transcript which also will need to include your full name, the last four of your SSN, your Date of Birth, and the address you wish your transcript to be sent to. NOTE: Ensure the letter is physically SIGNED by the member to release their record. The address to CCAF is:
Community College of the Air Force
100 South Turner Blvd.
Maxwell AFB, Gunter Annex AL 36114-3011
2) Credentials, INC. does overnight and regular delivery using their service called TranscriptPLUS for a fee.
This service can be found at https://www.credentials-inc.com/cgi-bin/dvcgitp.pgm?ALUMTRO012308.
CCAF progress report available
The Student Degree Plan allows CCAF students immediate information, degree program status, degree requirements and student records. Members can obtain their CCAF Progress Report on their AF Virtual Ed Center.
TRICARE and new health care reform impact explained
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) is designed to expand access to health care coverage, by lowering costs, improving quality while expanding care coordination for all Americans. PPACA requires all citizens to have health insurance or other health care coverage that meets the definition of minimum essential coverage (MEC) by Jan. 1, 2014. People who do not meet MEC will be required to pay a fee when filing their 2014 tax returns.
TRICARE programs, to include Prime, Standard, Prime Remote, TRICARE Reserve
Select, TRICARE Young Adult, and TRICARE Retired Reserve meet the requirements of MEC as long as you maintain your TRICARE enrollment. You can access information on these programs at www.tricare.mil. However, there are two very small populations that do not meet the requirements of MEC under TRICARE: those receiving care for line of duty only related conditions and those that are only eligible to receive care in military treatment facilities.
Beneficiaries are required to maintain DEERS information at the Military Personnel Element, since DEERS determines your eligibility for TRICARE.
DEERS will be the source of information that will be accessed to validate that you and your family members have health care coverage that meets the definition of MEC.
The bottom line is PPACA will not impact TRICARE beneficiaries with the exception of an extra letter or two delivered to your home and the additional box to check on tax forms every year. If you need more information on this program please visit www.tricare.mil/aca.
TOP STORY>>Additional winter-safety tips
Courtesy of 19th Civil Engineer Squadron
Preparing for winter is more than putting away your summer clothes. The reality is that snow and ice aren’t that far away. The beginning of winter is a great time to check your house and vehicle before bad weather arrives. Winterizing your home and having a family disaster plan are things you can prepare for ahead of time to ensure you are ready. Also, have emergency kits for your vehicle especially if you plan on taking road trips for the holidays. The following are ways the Federal Emergency Management Agency suggest you can prepare for the winter months:
Winterizing Your Home:
Ensure walls and attics are insulated
Check weather-stripping and caulking on doors and windows
Clean and inspect heating equipment and chimneys
Insulate pipes and allow faucet to drip during freezing weather
Know how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts)
Keep fire extinguishers on hand and ensure everyone knows how to use them
Vent fuel-burning equipment to the outside
Winterizing Your Vehicle:
Check fluid levels
Ensure heater and defroster work properly
Check for leaks in exhaust system
Battery and ignition system should be in good condition
Lights and flashing hazards should be serviceable
Emergency Kits:
Non-perishable food items (plan for 72 hrs per person)
Water (plan for 72 hrs per person)
Matches
Candles
Flashlights
Battery powered radio (extra radios)
First aid kit
Blankets
Did you know during winter, the number of carbon monoxide poisoning accidents increase? Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when a person is exposed to vehicle exhaust, defective furnaces, wood-burning stoves, portable camping stoves, etc. This toxic gas is colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-irritating initially. In 2012, there was an increase of carbon monoxide poisoning from vehicles with the exhaust/tailpipe covered by snow. Be sure to clear the exhaust pipe and around it before running your vehicle.
In addition to the above tips, make sure that you are familiar with these winter storm hazard terms:
Freezing Rain - Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
Sleet - Rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.
Winter Storm Watch - A winter storm is possible in your area. Tune in to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for more information.
Winter Storm Warning - A winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area.
Blizzard Warning - Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow (reducing visibility to less than a quarter mile) are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
Frost/Freeze Warning - Below freezing temperatures are expected.
The following websites can assist you with building an Emergency Kit, making a family emergency plan, and even talking to your children about disasters:
Center for Disease Control & Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov/features/beready/
Be Ready
http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather
For more information call Emergency Management at 987-2829.
Preparing for winter is more than putting away your summer clothes. The reality is that snow and ice aren’t that far away. The beginning of winter is a great time to check your house and vehicle before bad weather arrives. Winterizing your home and having a family disaster plan are things you can prepare for ahead of time to ensure you are ready. Also, have emergency kits for your vehicle especially if you plan on taking road trips for the holidays. The following are ways the Federal Emergency Management Agency suggest you can prepare for the winter months:
Winterizing Your Home:
Ensure walls and attics are insulated
Check weather-stripping and caulking on doors and windows
Clean and inspect heating equipment and chimneys
Insulate pipes and allow faucet to drip during freezing weather
Know how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts)
Keep fire extinguishers on hand and ensure everyone knows how to use them
Vent fuel-burning equipment to the outside
Winterizing Your Vehicle:
Check fluid levels
Ensure heater and defroster work properly
Check for leaks in exhaust system
Battery and ignition system should be in good condition
Lights and flashing hazards should be serviceable
Emergency Kits:
Non-perishable food items (plan for 72 hrs per person)
Water (plan for 72 hrs per person)
Matches
Candles
Flashlights
Battery powered radio (extra radios)
First aid kit
Blankets
Did you know during winter, the number of carbon monoxide poisoning accidents increase? Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when a person is exposed to vehicle exhaust, defective furnaces, wood-burning stoves, portable camping stoves, etc. This toxic gas is colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-irritating initially. In 2012, there was an increase of carbon monoxide poisoning from vehicles with the exhaust/tailpipe covered by snow. Be sure to clear the exhaust pipe and around it before running your vehicle.
In addition to the above tips, make sure that you are familiar with these winter storm hazard terms:
Freezing Rain - Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
Sleet - Rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.
Winter Storm Watch - A winter storm is possible in your area. Tune in to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for more information.
Winter Storm Warning - A winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area.
Blizzard Warning - Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow (reducing visibility to less than a quarter mile) are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
Frost/Freeze Warning - Below freezing temperatures are expected.
The following websites can assist you with building an Emergency Kit, making a family emergency plan, and even talking to your children about disasters:
Center for Disease Control & Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov/features/beready/
Be Ready
http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather
For more information call Emergency Management at 987-2829.
SPORTS STORY>>Team Little Rock EOD is the bomb!
By Staff Sgt. Jessica Condit
19th Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
The ability to neutralize threats and take control of a hazardous situation is the first priority of any military team. From working in a medical clinic to flying in an aircraft, every Airman plays an important role in the impact of the mission encompassing them. The Airmen at the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal team are no strangers to the demands of stressful situations and the critical decision-making skills required to successfully mitigate hazards.
The bomb squad readies for the challenges of their mission by performing critical training scenarios on base in order to be prepared for deployments and emergency calls. During deployment situations, the teams perform the same duties as the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps EOD teams and often fill other services’ taskings because the different branches of service cannot always fill them. Performing these tasks during wartime situations, the Air Force EOD teams moved from being typically on-base support to moving outside the wire, excelling rapidly.
Not only do the EOD team members assigned to the 19th CES perform mission-essential operations for Little Rock Air Force Base and in the area of responsibility during deployment operations, the crew also responds to emergency calls from the local community.
“The DOD maintains the responsibility for its munition items from cradle to grave, so when old munitions are discovered it falls on us to ensure that the hazards they pose are mitigated and removed from the civilian community,” says Master Sgt. Heath Mooney, 19th CES EOD flight chief.
Being the EOD support for Camp Robinson, Pine Bluff, Fort Chaffee, the 188th at Fort Smith as well as the Memphis National Guard andColumbus AFB, the EOD team does not count on down time.
With a response reach that spans the entire state, explosives dating as far back as the Civil War have been uncovered by the team. These potentially dangerous weapons are often found in housing, construction developments and public areas frequented by people.
“There are times where we’ve gone out around the state and we’ve found live items buried in the ground,” said Mooney. “Burns Park is a great example. We found a couple of WWI shrapnel rounds. They were live rounds that were so old and deteriorated; we had to blow them up right there in Burns Park.”
Team Little Rock’s EOD team is together day and night. With a 24/7 on-call status, many long days, and countless deployments together, the members consider each other their family away from family. The time spent together builds lasting bonds. The level of trust and cooperation are essential to the success of any EOD mission.
“I’ve never seen anything like the caliber and camaraderie of people that do this job,” said Mooney. “You literally trust these people with your lives.”
With the level of stress associated with the job, the team still manages to make their days eventful, even while sitting at a desk doing paperwork. While the section has rules and checklists like any other unit on base, thinking outside the box in extremely stressful situations is pertinent to being a successful EOD technician, Mooney stressed.
Because of the stressful situations all EOD members face, each Airman is informed that the task of becoming part of the EOD team is voluntary. If at any point an EOD technician does not feel that they can be an effective team member, he or she has the ability to pull their volunteer statement without penalty and join another career field.
“Nobody’s here because they have to be, everybody’s here because they love this job and that’s a testament to it,” said Mooney.
Although the stress of the job might seem overwhelming to an outsider looking in, the EOD team collectively set their mentality to become positive with every situation and to make the best of their daily circumstances. Camaraderie is the key to trust and enjoying the time spent with the work family.
“The whole job is fun. It all boils down to teamwork, camaraderie and family. Like any family, we argue like cats and dogs, but that’s what family does. By the end of the day, we’re brothers and everything is fine,” said Mooney.
While the EOD team does not directly affect whether the C-130’s land or take off, the support that they provide is more subtle but important none-the-less. Community support is a cornerstone of Team Little Rock. At home, the EOD team supports the community by the work they do by safing and removing potentially dangerous ordnance items that may be found.
“When we go out into the community, we represent the base and that is something we take very seriously,” said Mooney. “They don’t know the meaning of an occupational badge. They just know the Air Force came out to help. In that respect, we’re kind of an ambassador for the base, and we always want to have that positive impact.”
The 19th CES EOD team is essential to Team Little Rock. The dedication EOD shows to the community encourages the community support of Little Rock Air Force Base. This dedication was recently recognized when the 19th CES EOD team was selected by AMC as the winner of the SMSgt Gerald J. Stryzak Award for Best EOD Flight.
19th Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
The ability to neutralize threats and take control of a hazardous situation is the first priority of any military team. From working in a medical clinic to flying in an aircraft, every Airman plays an important role in the impact of the mission encompassing them. The Airmen at the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal team are no strangers to the demands of stressful situations and the critical decision-making skills required to successfully mitigate hazards.
The bomb squad readies for the challenges of their mission by performing critical training scenarios on base in order to be prepared for deployments and emergency calls. During deployment situations, the teams perform the same duties as the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps EOD teams and often fill other services’ taskings because the different branches of service cannot always fill them. Performing these tasks during wartime situations, the Air Force EOD teams moved from being typically on-base support to moving outside the wire, excelling rapidly.
Not only do the EOD team members assigned to the 19th CES perform mission-essential operations for Little Rock Air Force Base and in the area of responsibility during deployment operations, the crew also responds to emergency calls from the local community.
“The DOD maintains the responsibility for its munition items from cradle to grave, so when old munitions are discovered it falls on us to ensure that the hazards they pose are mitigated and removed from the civilian community,” says Master Sgt. Heath Mooney, 19th CES EOD flight chief.
Being the EOD support for Camp Robinson, Pine Bluff, Fort Chaffee, the 188th at Fort Smith as well as the Memphis National Guard andColumbus AFB, the EOD team does not count on down time.
With a response reach that spans the entire state, explosives dating as far back as the Civil War have been uncovered by the team. These potentially dangerous weapons are often found in housing, construction developments and public areas frequented by people.
“There are times where we’ve gone out around the state and we’ve found live items buried in the ground,” said Mooney. “Burns Park is a great example. We found a couple of WWI shrapnel rounds. They were live rounds that were so old and deteriorated; we had to blow them up right there in Burns Park.”
Team Little Rock’s EOD team is together day and night. With a 24/7 on-call status, many long days, and countless deployments together, the members consider each other their family away from family. The time spent together builds lasting bonds. The level of trust and cooperation are essential to the success of any EOD mission.
“I’ve never seen anything like the caliber and camaraderie of people that do this job,” said Mooney. “You literally trust these people with your lives.”
With the level of stress associated with the job, the team still manages to make their days eventful, even while sitting at a desk doing paperwork. While the section has rules and checklists like any other unit on base, thinking outside the box in extremely stressful situations is pertinent to being a successful EOD technician, Mooney stressed.
Because of the stressful situations all EOD members face, each Airman is informed that the task of becoming part of the EOD team is voluntary. If at any point an EOD technician does not feel that they can be an effective team member, he or she has the ability to pull their volunteer statement without penalty and join another career field.
“Nobody’s here because they have to be, everybody’s here because they love this job and that’s a testament to it,” said Mooney.
Although the stress of the job might seem overwhelming to an outsider looking in, the EOD team collectively set their mentality to become positive with every situation and to make the best of their daily circumstances. Camaraderie is the key to trust and enjoying the time spent with the work family.
“The whole job is fun. It all boils down to teamwork, camaraderie and family. Like any family, we argue like cats and dogs, but that’s what family does. By the end of the day, we’re brothers and everything is fine,” said Mooney.
While the EOD team does not directly affect whether the C-130’s land or take off, the support that they provide is more subtle but important none-the-less. Community support is a cornerstone of Team Little Rock. At home, the EOD team supports the community by the work they do by safing and removing potentially dangerous ordnance items that may be found.
“When we go out into the community, we represent the base and that is something we take very seriously,” said Mooney. “They don’t know the meaning of an occupational badge. They just know the Air Force came out to help. In that respect, we’re kind of an ambassador for the base, and we always want to have that positive impact.”
The 19th CES EOD team is essential to Team Little Rock. The dedication EOD shows to the community encourages the community support of Little Rock Air Force Base. This dedication was recently recognized when the 19th CES EOD team was selected by AMC as the winner of the SMSgt Gerald J. Stryzak Award for Best EOD Flight.
TOP STORY>>DoD, TSA partner to provide faster screening for military
Washington
(AFNS) – Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard, as well as
reservists and National Guard members are eligible for expedited Transportation
Security Administration, or TSA, screening beginning Dec. 20.
As part of
the ongoing effort to move away from a one size fits all security approach and
provide more of the traveling public the ability to participate in expedited
screening, the TSA and the Department of Defense partnered to expand TSA
Precheck expedited screening benefits to all service members.
Currently,
members of the armed forces can utilize TSA Precheck lanes at 10 domestic
airports by presenting their Common Access Card. The partnership expands the
program to the military at all 100 airports offering TSA Precheck, allowing
service members to keep their footwear on as well as light outerwear, belts,
keep their laptop in its case and their 3-1-1 compliant liquids/gels bag in a
carry on in select screening lanes.
“Expanding
TSA Precheck screening benefits is great news for our service members and is a
tangible sign of this nation’s gratitude for the men and women who serve this
nation bravely each and every day,” said Mary Snavely-Dixon, the director of
the Defense Manpower Data Center. “We will continue to work with the
Transportation Security Administration to help expand this program further.”
The new
process being established under this agreement allows all active duty, Coast
Guard, Reserve and National Guard service members to use their DOD
identification number when making reservations. That ID number will be used as
their known traveler number.
When
arriving at the airport, service members will then be permitted access to TSA
Precheck lanes for official or leisure travel on participating airlines.
“TSA joins
with the American people in showing its appreciation for the service and
sacrifices of our men and women in the armed forces,” said the TSA Deputy
Administrator John W. Halinski, a 25-year Marine Corps veteran. “Providing
expedited screening while on travel is the least we can do for these courageous
men and women.”
More than
18 million passengers have experienced TSA Precheck since it launched in
October 2011.
TSA has
recently expanded this expedited screening program to 60 new airports in
addition to the existing 40, bringing the total number of airports with TSA
Precheck to 100.
TSA has
long recognized our men and women in uniform as nearly a quarter of TSA’s
workforce is a veteran or currently serves as an active duty service member in
the armed forces.
In
addition to expanding TSA Precheck to service members, TSA offers the American
public about the Wounded Warrior Screening program. According to TSA officials,
this program makes the overall experience for wounded service members as simple
as possible. This includes personalized service and expedited screening to move
through security checkpoints without having to remove footwear, light
outerwear, jackets or head wear.
Wounded
warriors or their care coordinators can contact TSA Cares toll free at
855-787-2227 with details of the itinerary once flight arrangements are made
with the airline.
TSA will
always incorporate random and unpredictable security measures throughout the
airport, TSA officials said.
No
individual will be guaranteed expedited screening. Travelers can check the TSA
Precheck Participating Airports page for information on locations and hours of
active TSA Precheck lanes.
Further
information on TSA Precheck for military members can be found at www.TSA.gov
and www.defensetravel.dod.mil.
(Information provided by American Forces
Press Service)
TOP STORY>>The weather outside is frightful, but safety is so delightful
By Airman 1st Class Cliffton Dolezal
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Every year, on average, more than 40 people lose their lives on the slopes as a result of accidents in skiing and snowboarding in the U.S., according to the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA).
Common winter sport-related injuries include head trauma, shoulder dislocation or fracture, elbow injuries, broken legs and knee and ankle injuries.
To help avoid these injuries or worse, here are some tips for winter safety from The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
Pay attention to weather warnings and make adjustments for icy conditions, deep or wet snow and bad weather.
Wear appropriate safety gear — such as goggles and helmets — and ensure that all equipment is in proper working order.
Don’t go out alone. You should always be with a partner and remain in sight of each other. Make sure that someone else knows about your plans and whereabouts during your outdoor activity. It’s also a good idea to carry a cell phone with you.
Warm up thoroughly before your activity in order to prevent muscle, tendon and ligament injuries.
Stay in shape, and condition your muscles before the season begins. If you are over 50, consider having a medical check-up before you start participating in a winter sport.
Know and obey all the rules of your sport. Take a lesson from a qualified instructor, particularly in sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
If you’re in pain or feeling tired, call it a day.
Seek shelter and medical attention if signs of hypothermia or frostbite affect you or a companion. Early symptoms of frostbite include numbness and tingling, lack of feeling and poor motion in your fingers or toes.
“The biggest piece of advice I can give people is to stay hydrated,” said Tech. Sgt. Albert Beckwith, a 19th Airlift Wing ground safety technician. “People think that because it’s cold that they don’t have to stay sipping on that H2O, but they’re wrong.”
It may even be best to wear several layers of light, loose, element-resistant clothing to stay safe, warm and dry according to the NSAA.
“Ensuring you are receiving the proper safety briefs and are properly trained on winter sport activities is paramount,” said Beckwith.
Armed with the information provided in this campaign plan, supervisors have more resources at their fingertips as Team Little Rock continues to move forward in a crusade against mishaps.
For more information about winter safety or tips for battling the elements visit http://www.afsec.af.mil/ or call the safety office at 501-987-6377.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Every year, on average, more than 40 people lose their lives on the slopes as a result of accidents in skiing and snowboarding in the U.S., according to the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA).
Common winter sport-related injuries include head trauma, shoulder dislocation or fracture, elbow injuries, broken legs and knee and ankle injuries.
To help avoid these injuries or worse, here are some tips for winter safety from The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
Pay attention to weather warnings and make adjustments for icy conditions, deep or wet snow and bad weather.
Wear appropriate safety gear — such as goggles and helmets — and ensure that all equipment is in proper working order.
Don’t go out alone. You should always be with a partner and remain in sight of each other. Make sure that someone else knows about your plans and whereabouts during your outdoor activity. It’s also a good idea to carry a cell phone with you.
Warm up thoroughly before your activity in order to prevent muscle, tendon and ligament injuries.
Stay in shape, and condition your muscles before the season begins. If you are over 50, consider having a medical check-up before you start participating in a winter sport.
Know and obey all the rules of your sport. Take a lesson from a qualified instructor, particularly in sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
If you’re in pain or feeling tired, call it a day.
Seek shelter and medical attention if signs of hypothermia or frostbite affect you or a companion. Early symptoms of frostbite include numbness and tingling, lack of feeling and poor motion in your fingers or toes.
“The biggest piece of advice I can give people is to stay hydrated,” said Tech. Sgt. Albert Beckwith, a 19th Airlift Wing ground safety technician. “People think that because it’s cold that they don’t have to stay sipping on that H2O, but they’re wrong.”
It may even be best to wear several layers of light, loose, element-resistant clothing to stay safe, warm and dry according to the NSAA.
“Ensuring you are receiving the proper safety briefs and are properly trained on winter sport activities is paramount,” said Beckwith.
Armed with the information provided in this campaign plan, supervisors have more resources at their fingertips as Team Little Rock continues to move forward in a crusade against mishaps.
For more information about winter safety or tips for battling the elements visit http://www.afsec.af.mil/ or call the safety office at 501-987-6377.
CLASSIFIEDS>>2-7-14
ANNOUNCEMENTS
THE COMBAT AIRLIFTER CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to 404 Graham Rd., Jacksonville, Ark. 72078. You may also e-mail them to combatairlifterclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday's issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.
HELP WANTED
$725 A week. No experience. Air quality testing. 10-15 openings. Must be 18 & have reliable transportation. Paid weekly. Call for interview, Mon.-Fri. 9 am-5 pm. (501) 605-1303.*
HORSES
HORSES: LUCKY Acres Boarding Stable, TLC for your horse, box stalls and paddocks, clean pastures, indoor and outdoor arenas, riding instruction and training program. Dressage our specialty. (501) 988-2458.
PETS
FEMALE BOXER/TERRIER mix, 1 yr. old, 40 lbs., very sweet family dog, free to good home, (727) 808-8068.
AUTOS/ACCESSORIES
1991 CHEVY C/K 1500, lifted, 139,000 miles, new tires, remote start, no issues, great condition, $6,700 obo. Pics. avail. Call/text (716) 316-3420.
HEADLIGHTS FOR Nissan Titan, clear w/no damage, perfect condition, $60. Pics. avail. Call/text (716)316-3420.
2005 HYUNDAI Accent 4-Dr. sedan, $1,500. (501) 607-3459.
1993 CHEVY S-10 Blazer 2-door, 4.3 V6, auto., A/C, real clean, good condition, $1,650. (501) 843-3476, Cabot.
4 USED tires, Hankook Ventus V2, 225/50R17, good condition, $60 for all 4. (352) 208-3785.
2010 DODGE Nitro ST, clean, good condition, V6, 3.7L, hitch kit, Carfax avail., pics avail. (501) 310-2078.
SET OF BF Goodrich All-Terrain tires, 215/70/R16, 25k miles left, $150 cash. (501) 749-7423.
2008 F250 super duty 4x4 w/4X-4 pkg., 6.4L diesel engine w/56,600 miles, 4-door, Supercrew, red, $29,500. Call/text (501) 516-1736.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
2001 MAXUM 1900SC ski boat, 4.3L, 190 hp, less than 40 hrs., needs new starter, has Cuddy cabin & is Bimini top ready, $6,000. Pics. avail. Call/text (501) 772-5318.
1998 CARDINAL 5th wheel 27RK camper, sleeps 5, 4 new 10-ply tires, A/C, furnace, fridge, water heater - all work as they should. Nice awning, $8,000. Call/text (501) 516-1736.
ITEMS FOR SALE
(2) 10" Kicker subs in box, brand new, barely used, $250 obo. Pics. avail. Call/text (716)316-3420.
ICON SQUAD II motorcycle backpack, orange, like new condition, $75. Call/text (501) 772-5318.
LOGITECH Z5300 THX 5.1 surround sound speakers for computer, gaming console, smart phone or tablet, $110. Call/text (501) 772-5318.
LADY RIDER full leather 2-pc. motorcycle suit, sz. 12, can be zipped together & has removable jacket liner, $250. Call/text (501) 772-5318.
RAINBOW VACUUM cleaner with Rianjet, newest model, $1,500. Pics avail. Call/text (501) 247-6130.
LUGGAGE CARRIER for SUV receiver, adjustable, comes with heavy duty cover, $100. (501) 681-8498.
WEDDING DRESS, strapless David's Bridal gown, slip & bra, sz. 10, $500 obo. Call/text (501) 992-7259.
FURNITURE
CHERRY CONVERTIBLE crib w/attached changing table, used condition w/scratches, easily fixed, $50. (479) 223-2336.
CHERRY CONVERTIBLE crib w/attached changing table, used condition w/scratches, easily fixed, $50. (479) 223-2336.
TWIN-SIZED MATTRESS & box spring w/metal frame, perfect condition, very clean, $200 obo. (501) 247-0653.
WANTED
WANTED: MEN'S mess dress, 42 reg. coat, 34x32 pants. (707) 398-1514.
HOUSES FOR RENT
Sherwood/Jacksonville areas. Beautiful 2, 3 & 4 Bedroom Mobile Homes. Large lots, in quiet safe park, close to LRAFB. Clean, quiet, & safe park. $425-$650 plus deposit. (501) 835-3450.
JANUARY SPECIAL, $100 deposit! Jacksonville: mobile home in park. 3 bedroom/2 bath. $500-$575 per month. 501-744-4668.
JANUARY SPECIAL, $100 deposit! Beebe: mobile home subdivision, 3 bedroom/2 bath on 1/2 acre lot, $550 per month. 501-744-4668.
Jax: $100 deposit, 1 bedroom camper in mobile home park, all utilities paid except propane. $350 per month. (501) 744-4668.
FOR RENT - Sherwood/Gravel Ridge area: 3 bedroom, 1.5 baths, garage, fenced yard, $700 mo. w/$500 dep. Call Chris (501) 590-1667.
Jacksonville 3 bedroom/2 bath MH in park. $500-$575 per month. $0 deposit and 1st months rent free for active military. Move in today with $0 down. Call Wendy at 501-744-4668.
HOUSE FOR rent: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, fenced backyard, shed, enclosed garage made into 2 extra rooms, washer/dryer hookups, new stove & fridge, 5 minutes from air base. $725 month, $600 deposit. No pets. (501) 681-0936.
Thursday, December 5, 2013
TOP STORY>>Field trip sparks students' hope for future
By Senior Airman Regina Agoha
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Team Little Rock maintainers gave middle school students a first-hand glimpse of the excellence and skills needed to make both aspirations and aircraft soar.
Though the ground was wet and the sky was grey, 90 bright and sunny sixth, seventh and eighth graders from Cloverdale Aerospace Technology Conversion Charter School toured the 19th Component Maintenance Squadron centralized repair facility on Nov. 21 at Little Rock Air Force Base.
Cloverdale Charter School students are predominantly below the poverty level; some are known to be homeless. Considered by many to be at risk, students’ achievement scores have improved over the past three years since the one of the school’s focuses has become aerospace education.
Students learn many facets of flight during their middle school years from aerodynamic principles to hands-on design. They are exposed to hundreds of different career fields available in the aerospace industry. The school’s courses enhance students’ math, literacy, science and social study skills.
Cloverdale has a fleet of 40 R/C “drone” aircraft that the students are allowed to fly. They also have 35 R/C Flight Simulators, two Redbird Cessna Flight Simulators, and a STARLab Planetarium. Students interested in astronomy can use one of the schools four 130 mm computerized telescopes to stargaze.
While touring the facility on base, the student were treated to a close-up look at C-130 propellers, a compression module and legacy C-130 engines. Engine experts specifically explained the difference between the H-1 and H-3 engines and showed the precision, parts and processes that keep the Team Little Rock mission in the air.
“The aerospace field trip to the Air Force base was exciting,” said eighth grader Zadrian Goodwin. “It was so fascinating how every part of the process of making the engine was just as important as any other.”
Goodwin also said, “It was fascinating to see how the base worked as a city of its own. It consisted of all the things as a city like Little Rock would have, and it was so big. My favorite part about the trip was seeing one of the planes take off, and even though I was hoping to see a jet, I was still amazed.”
The students were not only amazed by the base as a whole; they were impressed with the individual commitment each Airmen had to their job and one another.
“What I thought about the field trip was that it’s really cool that all those men work together to make those engines,” said sixth grader Maria Cervantes. “Also, I thought the experience of getting to see an engine in person and to see all parts of the engine. Also I thought that it was amazing that all of the people memorize all the parts of the engine and the tools that they use for the engines. The [squadron] commander was also very welcoming to us. It was a very cool trip that we got to see the engines and even saw a plane take off.”
Garrick St. Pierre, the school’s coordinator and also an aerospace education officer for Arkansas Wing, said when the students go on field trips like these his goals for them are: to see the hard work, dedication and teamwork the Airmen display, provide career possibilities (civilian and military), and to confirm the academics they learn at school.
“Most students never thought about airplanes before;” said St. Pierre. “Many have never seen an airplane except when it flies overhead. I wish I could say that aerospace is every student’s favorite class, but it is not. However, a huge number love it and more importantly, has opened their eyes to the world beyond Southwest Little Rock. For many, it is the first time they have realized the world is larger than school and the block they live on.”
Three things St. Pierre said he wants the students to learn from his class are: 1) The world is a great big place with lots of wonderful things in it, and they can have a fantastic life for those that are willing to try new things and go new places. 2) There are more choices in life after high school than either going to college. 3) What they learn in math, English, science and social studies is used in the real world by real people.
“One of the things we did at the base was talk to people who worked and lived there,” said seventh grader, Bintou Konneh. “It was awesome that people were talking to us about their lives and what they do.”
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Team Little Rock maintainers gave middle school students a first-hand glimpse of the excellence and skills needed to make both aspirations and aircraft soar.
Though the ground was wet and the sky was grey, 90 bright and sunny sixth, seventh and eighth graders from Cloverdale Aerospace Technology Conversion Charter School toured the 19th Component Maintenance Squadron centralized repair facility on Nov. 21 at Little Rock Air Force Base.
Cloverdale Charter School students are predominantly below the poverty level; some are known to be homeless. Considered by many to be at risk, students’ achievement scores have improved over the past three years since the one of the school’s focuses has become aerospace education.
Students learn many facets of flight during their middle school years from aerodynamic principles to hands-on design. They are exposed to hundreds of different career fields available in the aerospace industry. The school’s courses enhance students’ math, literacy, science and social study skills.
Cloverdale has a fleet of 40 R/C “drone” aircraft that the students are allowed to fly. They also have 35 R/C Flight Simulators, two Redbird Cessna Flight Simulators, and a STARLab Planetarium. Students interested in astronomy can use one of the schools four 130 mm computerized telescopes to stargaze.
While touring the facility on base, the student were treated to a close-up look at C-130 propellers, a compression module and legacy C-130 engines. Engine experts specifically explained the difference between the H-1 and H-3 engines and showed the precision, parts and processes that keep the Team Little Rock mission in the air.
“The aerospace field trip to the Air Force base was exciting,” said eighth grader Zadrian Goodwin. “It was so fascinating how every part of the process of making the engine was just as important as any other.”
Goodwin also said, “It was fascinating to see how the base worked as a city of its own. It consisted of all the things as a city like Little Rock would have, and it was so big. My favorite part about the trip was seeing one of the planes take off, and even though I was hoping to see a jet, I was still amazed.”
The students were not only amazed by the base as a whole; they were impressed with the individual commitment each Airmen had to their job and one another.
“What I thought about the field trip was that it’s really cool that all those men work together to make those engines,” said sixth grader Maria Cervantes. “Also, I thought the experience of getting to see an engine in person and to see all parts of the engine. Also I thought that it was amazing that all of the people memorize all the parts of the engine and the tools that they use for the engines. The [squadron] commander was also very welcoming to us. It was a very cool trip that we got to see the engines and even saw a plane take off.”
Garrick St. Pierre, the school’s coordinator and also an aerospace education officer for Arkansas Wing, said when the students go on field trips like these his goals for them are: to see the hard work, dedication and teamwork the Airmen display, provide career possibilities (civilian and military), and to confirm the academics they learn at school.
“Most students never thought about airplanes before;” said St. Pierre. “Many have never seen an airplane except when it flies overhead. I wish I could say that aerospace is every student’s favorite class, but it is not. However, a huge number love it and more importantly, has opened their eyes to the world beyond Southwest Little Rock. For many, it is the first time they have realized the world is larger than school and the block they live on.”
Three things St. Pierre said he wants the students to learn from his class are: 1) The world is a great big place with lots of wonderful things in it, and they can have a fantastic life for those that are willing to try new things and go new places. 2) There are more choices in life after high school than either going to college. 3) What they learn in math, English, science and social studies is used in the real world by real people.
“One of the things we did at the base was talk to people who worked and lived there,” said seventh grader, Bintou Konneh. “It was awesome that people were talking to us about their lives and what they do.”
TOP STORY>>Base families recover after housing fire
By Senior Airman Kaylee Clark
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
As the holiday hustle and bustle nears a fever pitch, two Little Rock Air Force base families who lost their homes and personal possessions in a duplex fire Sept. 17 are simply thankful to have a place to sit back, relax and enjoy what the festive season brings.
According to Don Smart, 19th CES fire chief, the fire was one of 24 in base housing during the last five years, 12 of which have been cooking - related.
Though the fire, which was classified as a cooking fire, completely damaged both houses, no one was injured.
Beginning in the kitchen, the fire eventually spread throughout the entire home at 126 Pennsylvania Ave., as well as the neighboring home, 124 Pennsylvania Ave., consuming most of the former and rendering the latter uninhabitable.
The families were forced to vacate the duplex, but were quickly provided new homes from base housing.
“We were in a new house on base two days later,” said Airman 1st Class Jason Clark, a 19th Component Maintenance Squadron aircraft hydraulic systems journeyman.
While the two families have been provided new homes, they lost a considerable amount of personal goods in the fire. Team Little Rock responded by setting up a drive to donate necessary items to the families.
The Airmen and their familes received an abundance of donations, so much in fact, they gave some to the Airman’s Attic and Goodwill.
More than $2,000 was raised for both families that were involved in the incident.
“The first sergeants helped us out a lot,” said Clark. “They provided us with new uniforms for work. We received kitchen supplies, baby clothes and gift cards. It was nice to have supporting Airmen from my squadron helping us in a time like this.”
Disasters are never planned, but Airmen should be prepared by having an emergency savings plan and a solid evacuation plan.
“We are still overwhelmed from the whole situation; you never expect something like this to happen,” said Clark.
If an Airman is ever in a similar situation, one of the first steps they can take is contacting their first sergeant.
Master Sgt. Rodney Kizzia, the 19th Component Maintenance Squadron first sergeant, said, “there are a lot of agencies willing to help; if you don’t know what is available to you, go to your first sergeant.”
Don’t forget during the holidays to use safety while preparing all of your holiday meals.
Everyone should be vigilant of safety concerns while cooking, but in the event of encountering a cooking-related fire, there are some steps to follow.
First, turn the stove or burner off and place a well-fitting lid on the pan or container used for cooking.
Second, never try to move a container, pan or receptacle that’s on fire.
Third, call 911 as quickly as possible.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
As the holiday hustle and bustle nears a fever pitch, two Little Rock Air Force base families who lost their homes and personal possessions in a duplex fire Sept. 17 are simply thankful to have a place to sit back, relax and enjoy what the festive season brings.
According to Don Smart, 19th CES fire chief, the fire was one of 24 in base housing during the last five years, 12 of which have been cooking - related.
Though the fire, which was classified as a cooking fire, completely damaged both houses, no one was injured.
Beginning in the kitchen, the fire eventually spread throughout the entire home at 126 Pennsylvania Ave., as well as the neighboring home, 124 Pennsylvania Ave., consuming most of the former and rendering the latter uninhabitable.
The families were forced to vacate the duplex, but were quickly provided new homes from base housing.
“We were in a new house on base two days later,” said Airman 1st Class Jason Clark, a 19th Component Maintenance Squadron aircraft hydraulic systems journeyman.
While the two families have been provided new homes, they lost a considerable amount of personal goods in the fire. Team Little Rock responded by setting up a drive to donate necessary items to the families.
The Airmen and their familes received an abundance of donations, so much in fact, they gave some to the Airman’s Attic and Goodwill.
More than $2,000 was raised for both families that were involved in the incident.
“The first sergeants helped us out a lot,” said Clark. “They provided us with new uniforms for work. We received kitchen supplies, baby clothes and gift cards. It was nice to have supporting Airmen from my squadron helping us in a time like this.”
Disasters are never planned, but Airmen should be prepared by having an emergency savings plan and a solid evacuation plan.
“We are still overwhelmed from the whole situation; you never expect something like this to happen,” said Clark.
If an Airman is ever in a similar situation, one of the first steps they can take is contacting their first sergeant.
Master Sgt. Rodney Kizzia, the 19th Component Maintenance Squadron first sergeant, said, “there are a lot of agencies willing to help; if you don’t know what is available to you, go to your first sergeant.”
Don’t forget during the holidays to use safety while preparing all of your holiday meals.
Everyone should be vigilant of safety concerns while cooking, but in the event of encountering a cooking-related fire, there are some steps to follow.
First, turn the stove or burner off and place a well-fitting lid on the pan or container used for cooking.
Second, never try to move a container, pan or receptacle that’s on fire.
Third, call 911 as quickly as possible.
TOP STORY>>CHAMPS program: A day with a chief
By Staff Sgt. Russ Scalf
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
So you want to be a chief master sergeant? If you’ve ever wondered what that entails, it just so happens that the 19th Airlift Wing has an app. for that.
You won’t find this application through iTunes or your smart phone; the only place you can find this one through your chain of command. It’s called the Chief to Airman Mentor Program (CHAMP).
CHAMP is intended to introduce noncommissioned officers to the daily life of a Chief, and observe the strategic side of wing leadership and its role in our mission. The program was launched in October and selects a small group of Airmen each month to shadow a Chief or superintendent from a different unit on base.
The program, created by 19th Airlift Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. Margarita Overton, came about from a combination of sources.
“CHAMP originated from two sources,” said Overton. “The first was from a question asked during a Senior Airman below the zone board where nominees were asked, ‘If you were Commander for a day and could change one thing, what would it be?’ Several Airmen indicated they wanted more exposure to different mission sets across the base, so they could see how others fit into the message. This thought resurfaced again during Col. Rhatigan’s first All Call when he introduced his three priorities of Mission, Airmen, and Partners and emphasized that all of us are critical to mission accomplishment. He emphasized our partnerships and how important it is to work as a team.”
The nominative selection process is designed to provide sharp Airmen a deliberate developmental opportunity. If selected, the Airman will tail a Chief or superintendent for an entire day, gaining an unfiltered view of the many facets that comprise the day of a senior leader.
The most recent group of CHAMPs contained a widespread representation of Team Little Rock units. In total, 12 participants from nine different units shared in the mentorship opportunity. The Airmen and Chiefs were paired together with the help of Staff Sgt. Elizabeth Hauprich, the 19th Airlift command chief executive assistant.
“The CHAMP gave me the unique opportunity to partner with a senior NCO from TLR,” said Tech. Sgt. Andy Gilbert, a 19th Civil Engineer Squadron structural craftsman. I shared his day and saw how the Comptroller Squadron handles business from a strategic level. Being in the NCO tier can sometimes offer a capped level of experience. Seeing the next level and its impact is a means of motivation to strive for the next level of responsibility. My long-term goal is to be a Command Chief and every chance I get to receive mentorship is one step closer to achieving it. The feedback session we had afterwards was also another key factor of the day. The informality of the discussion offered a means to let everyone’s voice be heard and feel comfortable amongst the Chiefs. I recommended this program to all my Airmen.”
The program doesn’t offer incentive singularly to the Airmen. The mentors have the opportunity to pass along countless years of lessons learned.
“What the CHAMP does for me, and I know it sounds corny, but it re-blues me,” said Senior Master Sgt. Keith Munroe, the 19th Airlift Wing Director of Staff and 19th Comptroller Squadron superintendent. “I’ve had a lot of jobs in the Air Force, but mentoring, on every level, has been the most rewarding job of all. The only way to ensure we have a great Air Force tomorrow is to pass along what we’ve learned to those coming up behind us.”
Chief Overton’s hope for the program is that Airmen can appreciate how everyone, regardless of unit or specialty, performs a critical role in our Air Force. Additionally, by shadowing a Chief or senior leader in another organization, Airmen are made aware of some of the decision-making that occurs and the “why” behind those decisions.
“Our enlisted force is the envy of the world because of the investment we make toward enlisted development,” said Overton. “That development doesn’t have to come from the classroom, and the best lessons come from real situations. CHAMP allows Airmen to gain some first-hand leadership insight and be exposed to other scenarios, versus just their day-to-day ops. I had the opportunity to shadow my senior enlisted advisor, Chief Finch, who went on to be the 13th Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force, and it was an experience I never forgot!”
CHAMP is also a way of passing down the heritage and traditions of the enlisted corps. The mentors share knowledge and stories that reach back almost as far as the Air Force itself when 29-year Chiefs share the knowledge and stories told to them by the 30-year Chiefs who were their mentors.
The program occurs on the second Wednesday of every month. The next iteration is scheduled for Dec. 11. In January, CHAMP is expected to expand to allow shadowing opportunities to special duty positions such as military training leaders, Airman and Family Readiness NCO, Honor Guard NCO and first sergeants.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
So you want to be a chief master sergeant? If you’ve ever wondered what that entails, it just so happens that the 19th Airlift Wing has an app. for that.
You won’t find this application through iTunes or your smart phone; the only place you can find this one through your chain of command. It’s called the Chief to Airman Mentor Program (CHAMP).
CHAMP is intended to introduce noncommissioned officers to the daily life of a Chief, and observe the strategic side of wing leadership and its role in our mission. The program was launched in October and selects a small group of Airmen each month to shadow a Chief or superintendent from a different unit on base.
The program, created by 19th Airlift Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. Margarita Overton, came about from a combination of sources.
“CHAMP originated from two sources,” said Overton. “The first was from a question asked during a Senior Airman below the zone board where nominees were asked, ‘If you were Commander for a day and could change one thing, what would it be?’ Several Airmen indicated they wanted more exposure to different mission sets across the base, so they could see how others fit into the message. This thought resurfaced again during Col. Rhatigan’s first All Call when he introduced his three priorities of Mission, Airmen, and Partners and emphasized that all of us are critical to mission accomplishment. He emphasized our partnerships and how important it is to work as a team.”
The nominative selection process is designed to provide sharp Airmen a deliberate developmental opportunity. If selected, the Airman will tail a Chief or superintendent for an entire day, gaining an unfiltered view of the many facets that comprise the day of a senior leader.
The most recent group of CHAMPs contained a widespread representation of Team Little Rock units. In total, 12 participants from nine different units shared in the mentorship opportunity. The Airmen and Chiefs were paired together with the help of Staff Sgt. Elizabeth Hauprich, the 19th Airlift command chief executive assistant.
“The CHAMP gave me the unique opportunity to partner with a senior NCO from TLR,” said Tech. Sgt. Andy Gilbert, a 19th Civil Engineer Squadron structural craftsman. I shared his day and saw how the Comptroller Squadron handles business from a strategic level. Being in the NCO tier can sometimes offer a capped level of experience. Seeing the next level and its impact is a means of motivation to strive for the next level of responsibility. My long-term goal is to be a Command Chief and every chance I get to receive mentorship is one step closer to achieving it. The feedback session we had afterwards was also another key factor of the day. The informality of the discussion offered a means to let everyone’s voice be heard and feel comfortable amongst the Chiefs. I recommended this program to all my Airmen.”
The program doesn’t offer incentive singularly to the Airmen. The mentors have the opportunity to pass along countless years of lessons learned.
“What the CHAMP does for me, and I know it sounds corny, but it re-blues me,” said Senior Master Sgt. Keith Munroe, the 19th Airlift Wing Director of Staff and 19th Comptroller Squadron superintendent. “I’ve had a lot of jobs in the Air Force, but mentoring, on every level, has been the most rewarding job of all. The only way to ensure we have a great Air Force tomorrow is to pass along what we’ve learned to those coming up behind us.”
Chief Overton’s hope for the program is that Airmen can appreciate how everyone, regardless of unit or specialty, performs a critical role in our Air Force. Additionally, by shadowing a Chief or senior leader in another organization, Airmen are made aware of some of the decision-making that occurs and the “why” behind those decisions.
“Our enlisted force is the envy of the world because of the investment we make toward enlisted development,” said Overton. “That development doesn’t have to come from the classroom, and the best lessons come from real situations. CHAMP allows Airmen to gain some first-hand leadership insight and be exposed to other scenarios, versus just their day-to-day ops. I had the opportunity to shadow my senior enlisted advisor, Chief Finch, who went on to be the 13th Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force, and it was an experience I never forgot!”
CHAMP is also a way of passing down the heritage and traditions of the enlisted corps. The mentors share knowledge and stories that reach back almost as far as the Air Force itself when 29-year Chiefs share the knowledge and stories told to them by the 30-year Chiefs who were their mentors.
The program occurs on the second Wednesday of every month. The next iteration is scheduled for Dec. 11. In January, CHAMP is expected to expand to allow shadowing opportunities to special duty positions such as military training leaders, Airman and Family Readiness NCO, Honor Guard NCO and first sergeants.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
TOP STORY>>Month of the Military Family
By Staff Sgt. Jessica Condit
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Team Little Rock observed Military Family Appreciation Day on Nov. 16 with a giant celebration featuring games, competitions and family-friendly fun.
Base families braved the elements despite the light drizzle of rain and chilly weather in a fun-filled day of free food, face painting, pageants and challenges to include a dating game for couples.
This event, hosted by the Airman and Family Readiness Center, also showcased the broad range of helping organizations available to military families.
Base security forces and fire responders gave children a chance to see the tools emergency responders use to help keep the base safe.
Master Sgt. Kimberly Euton, 19th Force Support Squadron Readiness noncommissioned officer in charge, says that events like these build strong relationships for families. It also helps equip families for tough times such as deployments.
“The Air Force and Team Little Rock recognizes the importance of family unity,” says Euton. “Creating opportunities for families to enjoy spending time together and building stronger bonds increases the strength that needs to be present in order to help military families stay together, even when they are thousands of miles away.”
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Team Little Rock observed Military Family Appreciation Day on Nov. 16 with a giant celebration featuring games, competitions and family-friendly fun.
Base families braved the elements despite the light drizzle of rain and chilly weather in a fun-filled day of free food, face painting, pageants and challenges to include a dating game for couples.
This event, hosted by the Airman and Family Readiness Center, also showcased the broad range of helping organizations available to military families.
Base security forces and fire responders gave children a chance to see the tools emergency responders use to help keep the base safe.
Master Sgt. Kimberly Euton, 19th Force Support Squadron Readiness noncommissioned officer in charge, says that events like these build strong relationships for families. It also helps equip families for tough times such as deployments.
“The Air Force and Team Little Rock recognizes the importance of family unity,” says Euton. “Creating opportunities for families to enjoy spending time together and building stronger bonds increases the strength that needs to be present in order to help military families stay together, even when they are thousands of miles away.”
TOP STORY>>Vehicle Management Flight keeping the Rock moving
By Staff Sgt. Caleb Pierce
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle management flight keeps Little Rock Air Force Base’s mission going, not only on the ground, but they also aid in keeping the aircraft in the air.
The mission of the vehicle management flight is to provide safe and serviceable vehicles for three commands and 28 tenant units with more than 430 vehicles assigned to Little Rock AFB. The flight also assists some off-base agencies and units that are TDY.
To complete their mission, they perform a number of services that range from the smallest of tasks to large projects.
“We are a one-stop shop; anything that is available downtown at any of your mechanic shops or dealers, we offer, from changing light bulbs, engine oil and filters to replacing engines and transmissions,” said Tech. Sgt. Joseph Isaac, a 19th LRS vehicle management flight foreman.
In maintaining the ground mission, they affect the airlift mission too.
The flight maintains and ensures vehicles such as forklifts, fire trucks, aircraft loaders, aircraft tow vehicles, aircraft refueling vehicles and busses are operating safely to load cargo, move passengers, transport aircrew members, and move supply parts to aircraft maintenance, ensuring mission essential levels are met for each specific function.
While performing and maintaining the mission, they also have an initiative to “go green” that uses alternative items, primarily with fluids.
“We are charged with finding green initiative alternative items using recycled or re-refinedengine oils, hydraulic fluids, transmission fluids, recycled anti-freeze and re-treaded tires,” Isaac said. “All the stuff we have to have is in our green procurement operating instruction. We are making a difference here at 19th LRS vehicle management.”
Vehicle management not only makes a difference to the base mission, but the flight is also filled with experienced Airmen and civilian Airmen who want to pass on the information to those that are there now.
“I’ve been doing this 28 years,” said Mike Reid, a 19th LRS vehicle management flight work leader. “I try to make sure that they [new Airmen] get the best education and experience that they can out of this place.”
Ensuring they get the best training and education helps in completing the mission here, as well as downrange.
“All base units are dependent of vehicle management members performing their jobs to ensure the joint mission of the base is executed to MAJCOM standards,” said Maj. Michelle Whitfield, 19th LRS commander. “They are critical and they make it happen; they are the heroes.”
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle management flight keeps Little Rock Air Force Base’s mission going, not only on the ground, but they also aid in keeping the aircraft in the air.
The mission of the vehicle management flight is to provide safe and serviceable vehicles for three commands and 28 tenant units with more than 430 vehicles assigned to Little Rock AFB. The flight also assists some off-base agencies and units that are TDY.
To complete their mission, they perform a number of services that range from the smallest of tasks to large projects.
“We are a one-stop shop; anything that is available downtown at any of your mechanic shops or dealers, we offer, from changing light bulbs, engine oil and filters to replacing engines and transmissions,” said Tech. Sgt. Joseph Isaac, a 19th LRS vehicle management flight foreman.
In maintaining the ground mission, they affect the airlift mission too.
The flight maintains and ensures vehicles such as forklifts, fire trucks, aircraft loaders, aircraft tow vehicles, aircraft refueling vehicles and busses are operating safely to load cargo, move passengers, transport aircrew members, and move supply parts to aircraft maintenance, ensuring mission essential levels are met for each specific function.
While performing and maintaining the mission, they also have an initiative to “go green” that uses alternative items, primarily with fluids.
“We are charged with finding green initiative alternative items using recycled or re-refinedengine oils, hydraulic fluids, transmission fluids, recycled anti-freeze and re-treaded tires,” Isaac said. “All the stuff we have to have is in our green procurement operating instruction. We are making a difference here at 19th LRS vehicle management.”
Vehicle management not only makes a difference to the base mission, but the flight is also filled with experienced Airmen and civilian Airmen who want to pass on the information to those that are there now.
“I’ve been doing this 28 years,” said Mike Reid, a 19th LRS vehicle management flight work leader. “I try to make sure that they [new Airmen] get the best education and experience that they can out of this place.”
Ensuring they get the best training and education helps in completing the mission here, as well as downrange.
“All base units are dependent of vehicle management members performing their jobs to ensure the joint mission of the base is executed to MAJCOM standards,” said Maj. Michelle Whitfield, 19th LRS commander. “They are critical and they make it happen; they are the heroes.”
TOP STORY>>'Tis the season for safety
By Airman 1st Class Harry Brexel
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
It’s that most wonderful time of the year again! The holidays are a time filled with great food, presents and good times. Unfortunately , the season can also bring a Grinch-like influx of fire hazards, burglaries and vehicle accidents. Here are some statistics and tips to help you take care of yourself, your family and your Wingman.
Fire Safety
National statistics show that the amount of home fires increase around the holidays. Luckily, Little Rock Air Force Base does not mirror national statistics when it comes to holiday fire hazards.
According to the Chief Joseph Willet, the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron assistant chief of fire prevention Little Rock, “This is primarily due to the very aggressive fire prevention program and the attentiveness of the base populace to keeping fire safety a priority in their day-to-day activities.”
According to the National Fire Protection Association, each year, one out of every 66 reported Christmas tree fires resulted in a death. Small steps can be taken to prevent such catastrophes:
1. Be aware that real trees burn much quicker than fake ones.
2. When setting up a tree, try not to overload it with decorative lights.
3. Also make sure to not place candles or space heaters near your tree.
Cooking fires, particularly turkey fryers, can be just as dangerous as tree fires, according to Chief Willet.
“The use of fryers for cooking turkey is another fire concern and dangerous at best,” he said. “Safety in the use of these fryers cannot be stressed enough.”
Home break-ins
Another major concern around this time of year is burglaries. Police agencies see spikes in car and home break-ins around this time every year, according to national crime statistics. Little Rock Air Force Base Airmen and their families are not immune from crime.
Base crime prevention experts stress the importance of being aware and attention to detail when combating crime during the holidays.
“Lock your doors; don’t set patterns,” said Staff Sgt. Ian Becker, 19th Security Forces. “Thieves know a lot of people will be out of town. Try not to leave your home unattended when possible. Have a friend or neighbor collect your mail and newspapers.”
Something as taking out the trash could provide a treasure of information for crooks, he said.
“Leaving boxes in front of your house tells thieves what you’ve just bought,” he said. “Be aware, and don’t give criminals opportunity for crime.”
On the road
Another safety concern around the holidays is car accidents. When it comes to vehicle accidents, there are three main preventable causes: distracted driving, drunk driving and driving tired.
The 19th Airlift Wing chief of safety stresses the importance of thinking ahead and proper planning when taking to the highway during this busy travel season.
“The holidays are a time when people visit their families,” Lankford said. “It’s important to have a plan and to not drive tired. Texting or distracted driving is also very dangerous. Impaired driving is always a major concern, but especially around the holidays. Always have a designated driver.”
“In all of these instances, a plan can help save your life,” he said.
The program Airmen Against Drunk Driving operates 365 days a year, 24/7 and offers a ride to Airmen of all ranks. Call AADD at 501-987-AADD (2233).
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
It’s that most wonderful time of the year again! The holidays are a time filled with great food, presents and good times. Unfortunately , the season can also bring a Grinch-like influx of fire hazards, burglaries and vehicle accidents. Here are some statistics and tips to help you take care of yourself, your family and your Wingman.
Fire Safety
National statistics show that the amount of home fires increase around the holidays. Luckily, Little Rock Air Force Base does not mirror national statistics when it comes to holiday fire hazards.
According to the Chief Joseph Willet, the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron assistant chief of fire prevention Little Rock, “This is primarily due to the very aggressive fire prevention program and the attentiveness of the base populace to keeping fire safety a priority in their day-to-day activities.”
According to the National Fire Protection Association, each year, one out of every 66 reported Christmas tree fires resulted in a death. Small steps can be taken to prevent such catastrophes:
1. Be aware that real trees burn much quicker than fake ones.
2. When setting up a tree, try not to overload it with decorative lights.
3. Also make sure to not place candles or space heaters near your tree.
Cooking fires, particularly turkey fryers, can be just as dangerous as tree fires, according to Chief Willet.
“The use of fryers for cooking turkey is another fire concern and dangerous at best,” he said. “Safety in the use of these fryers cannot be stressed enough.”
Home break-ins
Another major concern around this time of year is burglaries. Police agencies see spikes in car and home break-ins around this time every year, according to national crime statistics. Little Rock Air Force Base Airmen and their families are not immune from crime.
Base crime prevention experts stress the importance of being aware and attention to detail when combating crime during the holidays.
“Lock your doors; don’t set patterns,” said Staff Sgt. Ian Becker, 19th Security Forces. “Thieves know a lot of people will be out of town. Try not to leave your home unattended when possible. Have a friend or neighbor collect your mail and newspapers.”
Something as taking out the trash could provide a treasure of information for crooks, he said.
“Leaving boxes in front of your house tells thieves what you’ve just bought,” he said. “Be aware, and don’t give criminals opportunity for crime.”
On the road
Another safety concern around the holidays is car accidents. When it comes to vehicle accidents, there are three main preventable causes: distracted driving, drunk driving and driving tired.
The 19th Airlift Wing chief of safety stresses the importance of thinking ahead and proper planning when taking to the highway during this busy travel season.
“The holidays are a time when people visit their families,” Lankford said. “It’s important to have a plan and to not drive tired. Texting or distracted driving is also very dangerous. Impaired driving is always a major concern, but especially around the holidays. Always have a designated driver.”
“In all of these instances, a plan can help save your life,” he said.
The program Airmen Against Drunk Driving operates 365 days a year, 24/7 and offers a ride to Airmen of all ranks. Call AADD at 501-987-AADD (2233).
Thursday, November 14, 2013
TOP STORY>>Little Rock remembers Veterans Day
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
“They fell, but o’er their glorious grave
floats free the banner of the cause they died to save.”
— Francis Marion Crawford
Veterans Day, formally known as Armistice Day, is a day instituted to honor all war veterans living and deceased.
Nov. 11, 1918, the Allied Forces and Germany signed an armistice agreement for the cessation of WWI. After the Second World War, Nov. 11 has since been celebrated as Armistice or Remembrance Day in the British Commonwealth of Nations and as Veterans Day in the U.S.
Little Rock Air Force Base, along with its community partners, recognized the contribution of war veterans, who displayed courage and patriotism in the face of danger during their service at the Veterans Day Retreat Ceremony on Nov. 7.
The ceremony began at 4 p.m. with the 19th Airlift Wing Commander, Col. Patrick Rhatigan, taking accountability for the wing and thanking Team Little Rock and the community for gathering to honor 22 million service members who fought and are still fighting in war, at home and abroad.
The 314th Airlift Wing commander and guest speaker for the ceremony, Col. Scott Brewer, started his speech with, “On the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns fell silent.”
He said, that day, known as Armistice Day, is reserved to honor all service members dead, wounded and alive. Brewer elaborated on the rather large history of war, dating back to biblical days with Cain and Abel. He stated that with 9/11 and other numerous recent attacks, there is still work to be done.
“No matter how far you look down the timeline, there’s far too much hate,” said Brewer. “Veterans and their families know that all too well.”
Brewer ended his speech saying though there’s sure to be more wars; we will always remember the valor of the veterans and the freedom they fight for.
As the ceremony closed, the base Honor Guard retired the colors at 4:30 p.m., and Col. Rhatigan released the formation.
“They fell, but o’er their glorious grave
floats free the banner of the cause they died to save.”
— Francis Marion Crawford
Veterans Day, formally known as Armistice Day, is a day instituted to honor all war veterans living and deceased.
Nov. 11, 1918, the Allied Forces and Germany signed an armistice agreement for the cessation of WWI. After the Second World War, Nov. 11 has since been celebrated as Armistice or Remembrance Day in the British Commonwealth of Nations and as Veterans Day in the U.S.
Little Rock Air Force Base, along with its community partners, recognized the contribution of war veterans, who displayed courage and patriotism in the face of danger during their service at the Veterans Day Retreat Ceremony on Nov. 7.
The ceremony began at 4 p.m. with the 19th Airlift Wing Commander, Col. Patrick Rhatigan, taking accountability for the wing and thanking Team Little Rock and the community for gathering to honor 22 million service members who fought and are still fighting in war, at home and abroad.
The 314th Airlift Wing commander and guest speaker for the ceremony, Col. Scott Brewer, started his speech with, “On the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns fell silent.”
He said, that day, known as Armistice Day, is reserved to honor all service members dead, wounded and alive. Brewer elaborated on the rather large history of war, dating back to biblical days with Cain and Abel. He stated that with 9/11 and other numerous recent attacks, there is still work to be done.
“No matter how far you look down the timeline, there’s far too much hate,” said Brewer. “Veterans and their families know that all too well.”
Brewer ended his speech saying though there’s sure to be more wars; we will always remember the valor of the veterans and the freedom they fight for.
As the ceremony closed, the base Honor Guard retired the colors at 4:30 p.m., and Col. Rhatigan released the formation.
TOP STORY>>ID card scans start at Commissary
By Arlo Taylor
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The base commissary started scanning customer IDs on Thursday during checkouts as part of a new Defense Commissary Agency procedures.
The store's approximately 32,000 monthly customers will simply show their ID and have it scanned at checkout to establish their eligibility.
The program will also help improve the commissary benefit for all patrons by keeping up patron usage, officials said.
"Commissary customers are long used to presenting their DOD ID cards to cashiers to verify eligibility for the commissary benefit," said Manuel Othon, Little Rock Commissary Store Director.
"Now we're able to verify eligibility by scanning the bar code on the back of the ID cards, which is more effective than a visual inspection to ensure customer eligibility of commissary benefits."
By scanning the ID at checkout, DeCA will no longer need to maintain any personal information on customers in its computer systems, such as the system used for customers who write checks. Cross-referenced with other DOD data, the scan data will give DeCA data by military service, along with customer demographics that does not identify specific personal data of an individual.
This data will eventually help the agency identify shopping needs and preferences - information that is essential in today's retail business environment. It will also allow more accurate reporting to the military services on commissary usage.
"The data will give us a better grasp of our store's customer profile in a way that mere product movement data can't," Othon said. "For example, just knowing the average age and household size of our customer base, gives our buyers and operators great insight into the types of products and services our customers are interested in, and that's more than product movement can tell us."
The demographic information DeCA will use is strictly limited to: card ID number, rank, military status, branch of service, age, household size and ZIP codes of residence and duty station. DeCA will not be using any personal information such as names, addresses or phone numbers.
"The methods, processes and information we'll use will not compromise our customers' privacy – they can be sure of that," said Joseph H. Jeu, DeCA director and CEO. "We're putting technology to work to better understand our customers and ensure the commissary benefit continues to remain relevant to them now and in the future."
For more information on ID card scanning, go to http://www.commissaries.com/documents/contact_deca/faqs/id_card_scanning.cfm.
TOP STORY >>Team Little Rock celebrates military families on Saturday
By Cheri Dragos-Pritchard
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Little Rock Air Force Base is set to celebrate Month of the Military Family from 9:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday at the Warfit Pavilion here.
November is designated by presidential proclamation as Month of the Military Family to honor the commitment and sacrifices made by the families of our Nation’s service members.
“This event is for the families,” said Sharon Thompson, Airmen and Family Readiness Center chief. “Handing out fliers doesn’t make an event successful, participation does. We want all families to attend, especially the families who are new to this life style. We want to help connect them to others who know what it’s about and make them feel welcome. Most of all, we want all family members to know they are appreciated.”
Master Sgt. Kimberly Euton, A&FRC readiness noncommissioned officer, is the event coordinator and has organized several activities for the day.
“The theme of the event is, The Military Family Showcased – Little Rock Style,” Euton said. “It features games and activities designed to show the strength and diversity of our military families.”
Euton went on to mention some of the prizes participants can possibly win. There will be $500, $300 and $100 Visa gift cards given away as well as trophies. She said participants must be present to win.
Events include:
Dating Game for Couples
Good Times-In It to Win It
Ultimate Fitness Challenge
Trivia Pursuit Scavenger Hunt
Littlest Warrior Pageant (Pre-registration required)
We’ve Got Talent Contest (Pre-registration required)
Holiday Arts and Crafts
Static Displays
Child Seat Safety Clinic
Extreme Basketball/Weight Lifting
FREE Lunch /Refreshments
Live Radio Broadcast
This event also benefits homebound and disabled Veterans. Guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items (i.e., cans of corn, green beans, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes) with them to donate upon arrival at the event. The donations will be used to cook a Thanksgiving meal for local homebound and disabled Veterans.
The Saturday event is one small piece to a larger celebration for military families. The 2013 proclamation for the observance says, “Throughout our Nation’s history, an unbroken chain of patriots has strengthened us in times of peace and defended us in times of war. Yet the courageous men and women of the United States military do not serve alone. Standing alongside them are husbands and wives, parents and children, sisters and brothers. During Military Family Month, we celebrate the families who make daily sacrifices to keep our Nation whole, and we remember a most sacred obligation -- to serve them as well as they serve us.”
Col. Patrick Rhatigan, 19th Airlift Wing and installation commander, supports the event to celebrate families and reflected the intent of the proclamation in the Nov. 4 edition of the Herk Call newsletter.
“No two families are exactly alike, but we each have someone who loved us and sacrificed to raise us,” said Rhatigan. “We owe much to our families — the ones we come from, and, for many of us, the ones we’re raising now. We perform at our best when our families are taken care of, so it’s appropriate we recognize those who support us every day.”
For more information on the event, contact the A&FRC at 501-987-6801.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Little Rock Air Force Base is set to celebrate Month of the Military Family from 9:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday at the Warfit Pavilion here.
November is designated by presidential proclamation as Month of the Military Family to honor the commitment and sacrifices made by the families of our Nation’s service members.
“This event is for the families,” said Sharon Thompson, Airmen and Family Readiness Center chief. “Handing out fliers doesn’t make an event successful, participation does. We want all families to attend, especially the families who are new to this life style. We want to help connect them to others who know what it’s about and make them feel welcome. Most of all, we want all family members to know they are appreciated.”
Master Sgt. Kimberly Euton, A&FRC readiness noncommissioned officer, is the event coordinator and has organized several activities for the day.
“The theme of the event is, The Military Family Showcased – Little Rock Style,” Euton said. “It features games and activities designed to show the strength and diversity of our military families.”
Euton went on to mention some of the prizes participants can possibly win. There will be $500, $300 and $100 Visa gift cards given away as well as trophies. She said participants must be present to win.
Events include:
Dating Game for Couples
Good Times-In It to Win It
Ultimate Fitness Challenge
Trivia Pursuit Scavenger Hunt
Littlest Warrior Pageant (Pre-registration required)
We’ve Got Talent Contest (Pre-registration required)
Holiday Arts and Crafts
Static Displays
Child Seat Safety Clinic
Extreme Basketball/Weight Lifting
FREE Lunch /Refreshments
Live Radio Broadcast
This event also benefits homebound and disabled Veterans. Guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items (i.e., cans of corn, green beans, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes) with them to donate upon arrival at the event. The donations will be used to cook a Thanksgiving meal for local homebound and disabled Veterans.
The Saturday event is one small piece to a larger celebration for military families. The 2013 proclamation for the observance says, “Throughout our Nation’s history, an unbroken chain of patriots has strengthened us in times of peace and defended us in times of war. Yet the courageous men and women of the United States military do not serve alone. Standing alongside them are husbands and wives, parents and children, sisters and brothers. During Military Family Month, we celebrate the families who make daily sacrifices to keep our Nation whole, and we remember a most sacred obligation -- to serve them as well as they serve us.”
Col. Patrick Rhatigan, 19th Airlift Wing and installation commander, supports the event to celebrate families and reflected the intent of the proclamation in the Nov. 4 edition of the Herk Call newsletter.
“No two families are exactly alike, but we each have someone who loved us and sacrificed to raise us,” said Rhatigan. “We owe much to our families — the ones we come from, and, for many of us, the ones we’re raising now. We perform at our best when our families are taken care of, so it’s appropriate we recognize those who support us every day.”
For more information on the event, contact the A&FRC at 501-987-6801.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
COMMENTARY>>Hagel: Six priorities shape future defense institutions
By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON (AFNS) — In the months since the 2012 defense strategic guidance first reflected a new budget reality, Pentagon officials and military leaders have been working on the department's longer-term budget and strategy, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said here Nov. 5.
In the keynote address before the Center for Strategic and International Studies' Global Security Forum, Hagel said a needed realignment of missions and resources is being undertaken across the department that will require significant change across every aspect of the enterprise.
"I have identified six areas of focus for our budget and strategic planning efforts going forward," the secretary said.
"Working closely with the service secretaries, service chiefs, combatant commanders and DOD leaders," he added. "These six priorities will help determine the shape of our defense institutions for years to come."
The priorities include institutional reform, force planning, preparing for a prolonged military readiness challenge, protecting investments in emerging capabilities, balancing capacity and capability across the services, and balancing personnel responsibilities with a sustainable compensation policy.
During his first weeks in office, Hagel said, he directed a Strategic Choices and Management Review that over several months identified options for reshaping the force and institutions in the face of difficult budget scenarios.
"That review pointed to the stark choices and tradeoffs in military capabilities that will be required if sequester-level cuts persist, but it also identified opportunities to make changes and reforms," Hagel said.
"Above all, it underscored the reality that DOD still possesses resources and options," he said. "We will need to more efficiently match our resources to our most important national security requirements. We can do things better, we must do things better, and we will."
Addressing the six priorities that will shape future defense efforts, the secretary began with a continued a focus on institutional reform.
Coming out of more than a decade of war and budget growth, he said, there is a clear opportunity and need to reshape the defense enterprise, including paring back the world's largest back office. This summer, Hagel announced a 20-percent reduction in headquarters budgets across the department, beginning with the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
"Our goal is not only to direct more of our resources to real military capabilities and readiness," Hagel said, "but to make organizations flatter and more responsive to the needs of our men and women in uniform."
The second priority is to re-evaluate the military force-planning construct -- the assumptions and scenarios for which U.S. military forces organize, train and equip themselves.
"I've asked our military leaders to take a very close look at these assumptions (and) question these past assumptions, which will also be re-evaluated across the services as part of the (Quadrennial Defense Review)," the secretary said. "The goal is to ensure they better reflect our goals and the shifting strategic environment, the evolving capacity of our allies and partners, real-world threats, and the new military capabilities that reside in our force and in the hands of our potential adversaries."
Hagel said the third priority will be to prepare for a prolonged military readiness challenge. In managing readiness under sequestration, he added, the services have protected the training and equipping of deploying forces to ensure that no one goes unprepared into harm's way. This is the department's highest responsibility to its forces, the secretary said, and yet already, "we have seen the readiness of non-deploying units suffer as training has been curtailed, flying hours reduced, ships not steaming and exercises canceled."
The Strategic Choices and Management Review showed that sequester-level cuts could lead to a readiness crisis, and unless something changes, Hagel said, "we have to think urgently and creatively about how to avoid that outcome, because we are consuming our future readiness now."
The fourth priority will be protecting investments in emerging military capabilities -- especially space, cyber, special operations forces, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, the secretary said.
"As our potential adversaries invest in more sophisticated capabilities and seek to frustrate our military's traditional advantages, including our freedom of action and access ... around the world," he said, "it will be important to maintain our decisive technological edge."
The fifth priority is balance across the services in the mix between capacity and capability, between active and reserve forces, between forward-stationed and home-based forces, and between conventional and unconventional warfighting capabilities, Hagel said.
"In some cases we will make a shift, for example, by prioritizing a smaller, modern and capable military over a larger force with older equipment," he said. "We will also favor a globally active and engaged force over a garrison force."
The services will look to better leverage the reserve components, with the understanding that part-time units in ground forces can't expect to perform at the same levels as full-time units, at least in the early stages of a conflict. In other cases, the services will seek to preserve balance, for example, by controlling areas of runaway cost growth, the secretary said.
The sixth priority is personnel and compensation policy, which Hagel said may be the most difficult issue.
"Without serious attempts to achieve significant savings in this area, which consumes roughly now half the DOD budget and increases every year, we risk becoming an unbalanced force, one that is well-compensated but poorly trained and equipped, with limited readiness and capability," he said.
Going forward, the department must make hard choices in this area to ensure that the defense enterprise is sustainable for the 21st century, the secretary said.
Hagel said Congress must permit meaningful reforms as it reduces the defense budget, and the department needs Congress as a willing partner in making tough choices to bend the cost curve on personnel, while meeting its responsibilities to its people.
"Even as we pursue change across the Department of Defense, the greatest responsibility of leadership will always remain the people we represent, our men and women in uniform, their families, and our dedicated civilian workforce," the secretary said.
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON (AFNS) — In the months since the 2012 defense strategic guidance first reflected a new budget reality, Pentagon officials and military leaders have been working on the department's longer-term budget and strategy, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said here Nov. 5.
In the keynote address before the Center for Strategic and International Studies' Global Security Forum, Hagel said a needed realignment of missions and resources is being undertaken across the department that will require significant change across every aspect of the enterprise.
"I have identified six areas of focus for our budget and strategic planning efforts going forward," the secretary said.
"Working closely with the service secretaries, service chiefs, combatant commanders and DOD leaders," he added. "These six priorities will help determine the shape of our defense institutions for years to come."
The priorities include institutional reform, force planning, preparing for a prolonged military readiness challenge, protecting investments in emerging capabilities, balancing capacity and capability across the services, and balancing personnel responsibilities with a sustainable compensation policy.
During his first weeks in office, Hagel said, he directed a Strategic Choices and Management Review that over several months identified options for reshaping the force and institutions in the face of difficult budget scenarios.
"That review pointed to the stark choices and tradeoffs in military capabilities that will be required if sequester-level cuts persist, but it also identified opportunities to make changes and reforms," Hagel said.
"Above all, it underscored the reality that DOD still possesses resources and options," he said. "We will need to more efficiently match our resources to our most important national security requirements. We can do things better, we must do things better, and we will."
Addressing the six priorities that will shape future defense efforts, the secretary began with a continued a focus on institutional reform.
Coming out of more than a decade of war and budget growth, he said, there is a clear opportunity and need to reshape the defense enterprise, including paring back the world's largest back office. This summer, Hagel announced a 20-percent reduction in headquarters budgets across the department, beginning with the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
"Our goal is not only to direct more of our resources to real military capabilities and readiness," Hagel said, "but to make organizations flatter and more responsive to the needs of our men and women in uniform."
The second priority is to re-evaluate the military force-planning construct -- the assumptions and scenarios for which U.S. military forces organize, train and equip themselves.
"I've asked our military leaders to take a very close look at these assumptions (and) question these past assumptions, which will also be re-evaluated across the services as part of the (Quadrennial Defense Review)," the secretary said. "The goal is to ensure they better reflect our goals and the shifting strategic environment, the evolving capacity of our allies and partners, real-world threats, and the new military capabilities that reside in our force and in the hands of our potential adversaries."
Hagel said the third priority will be to prepare for a prolonged military readiness challenge. In managing readiness under sequestration, he added, the services have protected the training and equipping of deploying forces to ensure that no one goes unprepared into harm's way. This is the department's highest responsibility to its forces, the secretary said, and yet already, "we have seen the readiness of non-deploying units suffer as training has been curtailed, flying hours reduced, ships not steaming and exercises canceled."
The Strategic Choices and Management Review showed that sequester-level cuts could lead to a readiness crisis, and unless something changes, Hagel said, "we have to think urgently and creatively about how to avoid that outcome, because we are consuming our future readiness now."
The fourth priority will be protecting investments in emerging military capabilities -- especially space, cyber, special operations forces, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, the secretary said.
"As our potential adversaries invest in more sophisticated capabilities and seek to frustrate our military's traditional advantages, including our freedom of action and access ... around the world," he said, "it will be important to maintain our decisive technological edge."
The fifth priority is balance across the services in the mix between capacity and capability, between active and reserve forces, between forward-stationed and home-based forces, and between conventional and unconventional warfighting capabilities, Hagel said.
"In some cases we will make a shift, for example, by prioritizing a smaller, modern and capable military over a larger force with older equipment," he said. "We will also favor a globally active and engaged force over a garrison force."
The services will look to better leverage the reserve components, with the understanding that part-time units in ground forces can't expect to perform at the same levels as full-time units, at least in the early stages of a conflict. In other cases, the services will seek to preserve balance, for example, by controlling areas of runaway cost growth, the secretary said.
The sixth priority is personnel and compensation policy, which Hagel said may be the most difficult issue.
"Without serious attempts to achieve significant savings in this area, which consumes roughly now half the DOD budget and increases every year, we risk becoming an unbalanced force, one that is well-compensated but poorly trained and equipped, with limited readiness and capability," he said.
Going forward, the department must make hard choices in this area to ensure that the defense enterprise is sustainable for the 21st century, the secretary said.
Hagel said Congress must permit meaningful reforms as it reduces the defense budget, and the department needs Congress as a willing partner in making tough choices to bend the cost curve on personnel, while meeting its responsibilities to its people.
"Even as we pursue change across the Department of Defense, the greatest responsibility of leadership will always remain the people we represent, our men and women in uniform, their families, and our dedicated civilian workforce," the secretary said.
TOP STORY>>Intramural Basketball: 314th AMXS squeaks out its season opener
By Airman 1st Class Cliffton Dolezal
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The 314th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron left victorious, Tuesday night, winning the intramural basketball season opener with a score of 44-40 over the 19th Force Support Squadron Nov. 5, 2013, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark.
The 19th FSS started off strong forcing three turnovers within the first three minutes of the game. They then struck first after capitalizing on a turnover forced by Malik Royal, who dished it up the court to a wide-open Jelani Burrell for an easy layup.
The 19th FSS, once in control of the game with a 16-7 lead, was asked by their coach to slow it down and control the clock, during a 2nd quarter timeout taken by the 314th AMXS, however the 314th AMXS had other plans.
The 314th AMXS came out of the timeout with something to prove. After dominating the boards and out shooting the 19th FSS, 10 to 3, they started to crawl back into the game. The momentum took a huge shift to the 314th AMXS side when number 5 of the 314th AMXS, Quintin Williams, took a charge while Royal stampeded down the baseline, leading to a three pointer made by Randy Hubbard, a 314th AMXS player, however the FSS managed to hold onto the lead, taking a 18-14 point lead into the half.
After exchanging buckets in another close quarter of basketball, the 314th AMXS managed to close the gap going into the 4th quarter only down by two.
Freethrows were critical to the 314th AMXS if they were to have any chance of a victory. The 19th FSS took several penalties in the 4th quarter, both, putting the 314th AMXS in the bonus as well as giving the 314th AMXS an opportunity to take the lead on the line, with only 4:35 left on the game clock. Williams knocked down both of his freethrows giving the 314th their first lead of the game.
Once they took the lead the 314th didn’t look back. Frustration set in on the FSS side of the ball, who seemed to be trying to overcompensate for their lack of scoring in the second half, forcing bad passes and missing wide-open opportunities to score.
The 314th AMXS went on to win, 44-40, and has high hopes to finish well this season.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The 314th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron left victorious, Tuesday night, winning the intramural basketball season opener with a score of 44-40 over the 19th Force Support Squadron Nov. 5, 2013, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark.
The 19th FSS started off strong forcing three turnovers within the first three minutes of the game. They then struck first after capitalizing on a turnover forced by Malik Royal, who dished it up the court to a wide-open Jelani Burrell for an easy layup.
The 19th FSS, once in control of the game with a 16-7 lead, was asked by their coach to slow it down and control the clock, during a 2nd quarter timeout taken by the 314th AMXS, however the 314th AMXS had other plans.
The 314th AMXS came out of the timeout with something to prove. After dominating the boards and out shooting the 19th FSS, 10 to 3, they started to crawl back into the game. The momentum took a huge shift to the 314th AMXS side when number 5 of the 314th AMXS, Quintin Williams, took a charge while Royal stampeded down the baseline, leading to a three pointer made by Randy Hubbard, a 314th AMXS player, however the FSS managed to hold onto the lead, taking a 18-14 point lead into the half.
After exchanging buckets in another close quarter of basketball, the 314th AMXS managed to close the gap going into the 4th quarter only down by two.
Freethrows were critical to the 314th AMXS if they were to have any chance of a victory. The 19th FSS took several penalties in the 4th quarter, both, putting the 314th AMXS in the bonus as well as giving the 314th AMXS an opportunity to take the lead on the line, with only 4:35 left on the game clock. Williams knocked down both of his freethrows giving the 314th their first lead of the game.
Once they took the lead the 314th didn’t look back. Frustration set in on the FSS side of the ball, who seemed to be trying to overcompensate for their lack of scoring in the second half, forcing bad passes and missing wide-open opportunities to score.
The 314th AMXS went on to win, 44-40, and has high hopes to finish well this season.
TOP STORY>>Sugar, spice and everything iced
By Airman 1st Class Harry Brexel
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The story of Alyssa Wurtz and Jacie Adams began in Alaska back in 2011. The two were dependents whose husbands were stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. They met by chance. Alyssa was searching for a dog, and Jacie’s dog just had puppies.
“Jacie didn’t want to sell her puppy at first, but she came around eventually. When Jacie and I met, it was almost like love at first sight,” Alyssa joked.
Alyssa and Jacie’s friendship only grew stronger. Despite their differences, Alyssa being a New Yorker and Jacie a Louisianan, the two still found that they had a lot in common. For instance, they were both new mothers who shared a passion for baking. For Alyssa, it was even in her blood. As she stated, “My grandfather was a pastry chef.”
“We saw other baking companies in Alaska and realized that it was something we could do, and do better. So we gave it a shot. We made a lot of cakes at first. But we realized that cakes took too long to make and decorate, so we decided to bake just cupcakes instead,” Alyssa added.
Starting their business, Cake Creations AK, was not easy at first. But the two made it work, even while on a limited senior airman’s budget. As their small business grew, more opportunities came about for the women.
“One day on Facebook I saw a casting call for ‘Cupcake Wars’,” said Alyssa. She responded to it on a whim. Cupcake Wars is a popular baking competition show on the Food Network.
“We never thought they would pick us, but they did. We were so happy,” said Alyssa. Out of the plethora of entries, the two women had made it. They boarded a plane and took the trip to Los Angeles. It was their first television appearance, and they could not have been more excited.
“Unfortunately Jacie had a last minute emergency and wasn’t able to make it to the show. My sister filled in for Jacie, but she’s not really a baker,” Alyssa said. The judges seemed to notice too, as the pair was eliminated in the first round for their candied yam cupcake.
Alyssa and Jacie stayed optimistic, despite the mishap on Cupcake Wars. The two are resilient, as many Air Force wives have to be. Their resilience would come into play again, as more complications were to come.
“My husband and I got orders,” said Alyssa. “We were leaving Alaska for Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. I cried a little,” she admitted.
Around the same time Alyssa’s husband got his orders, Jacie and her husband also received orders. The couple was leaving Alaska for Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. Despite being sent across North America, Alyssa and Jacie wanted to keep their business alive.
The women weren’t the only ones who believed in Cake Creations AK either. The Food Network contacted them again for a second chance at Cupcake Wars.
“They saw something in us,” Alyssa said. “We obviously accepted the offer, and went back for a second chance. We would be together this time too.” The two mothers made the trips from Nevada and Arkansas to Los Angeles.
“We did much better the second time,” Alyssa said. The judges were blown away by their Mimosa cupcakes during the first round. But ultimately in the second round, their root beer float cupcakes just didn’t cut it for one of the judges, and they were eliminated.
Although they didn’t win, the two television appearances were still something to brag about. Their business blossomed as cupcake requests poured in. The two still get recognized in public for their appearance on the Food Network.
“We kind of have a cult following now,” said Alyssa.
“I even moved to Arkansas for our business. It helps that my husband is so supportive. He is now in the process of switching to the Guard, so that he can come to Little Rock as well.” Jacie said.
Alyssa and Jacie have recently changed the name of their business from Cake Creations AK to Sugarbelles’ Cupcakes. They claim their business is unrivaled in the Little Rock metropolitan area. The two say that their cupcakes aren’t expensive either. Their business is so successful now, that the two mothers often work up to six days a week.
“We have a lot to look forward to in the future, especially considering that my husband just got home from a six-month deployment,” Alyssa said.
Jacie went on to say, “We’ve recently hired our friend, Samantha Magallanez, as our first employee. Our next venture is a storefront location.”
In the meantime, they are sticking to catering events and individual requests. Sugarbelles’ Cupcakes offers up to 130 different varieties of homemade cupcakes and can be reached through their Facebook page: CakeCreationsAK.
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The story of Alyssa Wurtz and Jacie Adams began in Alaska back in 2011. The two were dependents whose husbands were stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. They met by chance. Alyssa was searching for a dog, and Jacie’s dog just had puppies.
“Jacie didn’t want to sell her puppy at first, but she came around eventually. When Jacie and I met, it was almost like love at first sight,” Alyssa joked.
Alyssa and Jacie’s friendship only grew stronger. Despite their differences, Alyssa being a New Yorker and Jacie a Louisianan, the two still found that they had a lot in common. For instance, they were both new mothers who shared a passion for baking. For Alyssa, it was even in her blood. As she stated, “My grandfather was a pastry chef.”
“We saw other baking companies in Alaska and realized that it was something we could do, and do better. So we gave it a shot. We made a lot of cakes at first. But we realized that cakes took too long to make and decorate, so we decided to bake just cupcakes instead,” Alyssa added.
Starting their business, Cake Creations AK, was not easy at first. But the two made it work, even while on a limited senior airman’s budget. As their small business grew, more opportunities came about for the women.
“One day on Facebook I saw a casting call for ‘Cupcake Wars’,” said Alyssa. She responded to it on a whim. Cupcake Wars is a popular baking competition show on the Food Network.
“We never thought they would pick us, but they did. We were so happy,” said Alyssa. Out of the plethora of entries, the two women had made it. They boarded a plane and took the trip to Los Angeles. It was their first television appearance, and they could not have been more excited.
“Unfortunately Jacie had a last minute emergency and wasn’t able to make it to the show. My sister filled in for Jacie, but she’s not really a baker,” Alyssa said. The judges seemed to notice too, as the pair was eliminated in the first round for their candied yam cupcake.
Alyssa and Jacie stayed optimistic, despite the mishap on Cupcake Wars. The two are resilient, as many Air Force wives have to be. Their resilience would come into play again, as more complications were to come.
“My husband and I got orders,” said Alyssa. “We were leaving Alaska for Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. I cried a little,” she admitted.
Around the same time Alyssa’s husband got his orders, Jacie and her husband also received orders. The couple was leaving Alaska for Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. Despite being sent across North America, Alyssa and Jacie wanted to keep their business alive.
The women weren’t the only ones who believed in Cake Creations AK either. The Food Network contacted them again for a second chance at Cupcake Wars.
“They saw something in us,” Alyssa said. “We obviously accepted the offer, and went back for a second chance. We would be together this time too.” The two mothers made the trips from Nevada and Arkansas to Los Angeles.
“We did much better the second time,” Alyssa said. The judges were blown away by their Mimosa cupcakes during the first round. But ultimately in the second round, their root beer float cupcakes just didn’t cut it for one of the judges, and they were eliminated.
Although they didn’t win, the two television appearances were still something to brag about. Their business blossomed as cupcake requests poured in. The two still get recognized in public for their appearance on the Food Network.
“We kind of have a cult following now,” said Alyssa.
“I even moved to Arkansas for our business. It helps that my husband is so supportive. He is now in the process of switching to the Guard, so that he can come to Little Rock as well.” Jacie said.
Alyssa and Jacie have recently changed the name of their business from Cake Creations AK to Sugarbelles’ Cupcakes. They claim their business is unrivaled in the Little Rock metropolitan area. The two say that their cupcakes aren’t expensive either. Their business is so successful now, that the two mothers often work up to six days a week.
“We have a lot to look forward to in the future, especially considering that my husband just got home from a six-month deployment,” Alyssa said.
Jacie went on to say, “We’ve recently hired our friend, Samantha Magallanez, as our first employee. Our next venture is a storefront location.”
In the meantime, they are sticking to catering events and individual requests. Sugarbelles’ Cupcakes offers up to 130 different varieties of homemade cupcakes and can be reached through their Facebook page: CakeCreationsAK.
TOP STORY>>U.S., Israel hone their partnership thanks to C-130J
By 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The Center of Excellence here at the 314th Airlift Wing, Little Rock Air Force Base is renowned for its C-130 training program, which instructs Airmen from the United States and 46 allied nations around the globe.
In true international partnership, three Israeli Air Force students graduated from the J-model Course on Oct. 29 and returned to Israel in order to train their countrymen and stand up their country’s first C-130J flying squadron.
“The relationships we’ve made here will help our country greatly,” said Lt. Col. Uri Shaki, inbound Commander of the Israeli Air Force 103rd Airlift Squadron. “We’re grateful for the training and friendships we’ve made here. We know this will be a long lasting relationship.”
Israel’s decision to upgrade their C-130 airplanes from the older E and H “legacy” models to the newer J models triggered the 314th AW’s newest training partners, said Shaki. Israel plans to employ the C-130J in similar fashion as the United States.
“Our mission back home will be similar to the ones here,” said Capt. Itamar Lavi, pilot for the IAF 103rd flying squadron. “Our main mission will be airdrop support and delivering supplies.”
The three-person crew spent more than four months at The Rock for their training, which included three phases: basic qualification, tactical employment, and flightline training. This tiered approach enabled the crew to learn the basic flight characteristics of the C-130J and quickly progress in understanding aspects of employment while training in world-class simulators.
The final phase culminated in hands-on flight training at the 48th Airlift Squadron where they practiced each procedure and maneuver.
The training was terrific, the crew said, noting that the simulators could be vexing.
Lavi said the simulator is a good thing because it builds confidence and helps one correct mistakes before flying an actual C-130.
Both the Israeli crew and the local instructors agreed the training was beneficial to members of both nations. “I’ve flown with Israelis previously,” said Maj. Jeremy Wagner, 314th Airlift Wing pilot instructor. “There was never a question of whether these guys could fly. It’s been great to help equip these guys with a program to train others. The opportunity to share what we know and give them the tools to teach has been amazing.”
“You can’t amount them (benefits of training here),” said Lavi. “Everything we learned here from American instructors has been great.”
“Training here, we feel that we are amongst friends,” said Shaki. “We learned a lot professionally of course, but we also learned a lot from the people here and about the Air Force. There was always something to learn; high and low level things. We built a strong relationship. We feel the people here want us to succeed.”
“By inviting aircrew members from countries like Israel to train with us, not only do we develop rapport with peers from other nations, but we are building a partnership capacity that allows us to develop, guide and sustain relationships for mutual benefit and security,” said Maj. Eric McEwen, 714th Training Squadron international military student training officer.
McEwen said the mission of building international partnerships involves a lot of teamwork, highlighted by the many Airmen it takes to keep the C-130 mission flying.
“We couldn’t do it without our civilian employees here in the 714th TRS, our contracted partners that work for Lockheed Martin at JMATS, as well our flight instructors in the 48th Airlift Squadron and our maintenance troops from the 314th AMXS that keep the planes in the air,” he said.
The crew stated that it is an honor to be the first fully trained and qualified C-130J crew in Israel. Each of them are proud of the opportunity they’ve been given.
“This is a big challenge,” said Maj. Royi Day, Commander of Navigators for the 103rd Flying Squadron. “Changes like these can take dozens of years. It’s a special feeling to be the first ones to learn this skill and teach our countrymen. This has a once-in-a-lifetime feel to it.”
The Israelis enjoyed their time at the base and in the local community, which they had a chance to explore, even witnessing a Razorbacks game several weeks ago.
“I love it here,” said Lavi. “It’s so relaxed and the nature is beautiful. We honestly didn’t know what to expect. We had traveled to the United States before, but only in better known places on the east and west coast. We were surprised in a good way here.”
“Our stay has been great here,” said Shaki. “It’s a great place for families for those of us, like me, who’ve had their wife and kids here. The people are warm and friendly. We have to thank the base for their hospitality and warmth.”
After their evaluation flight, the fully qualified C-130J pilots and navigator will return to Israel and begin the task of building their own training program for future Israeli C-130J crewmembers. The relationship between the IAF and the USAF is poised to continue, with Israeli loadmasters beginning C-130J training here soon and the country scheduled to receive its first J models next April. It’s a relationship that both the Israeli crew and the FTU instructors at the 314th hope to continue.
“We’ve enjoyed it so much, having them here,” said Wagner. “The training is mutually beneficial.”
“We look forward to working with the people here in the future, as we continue to develop our C-130J squadron,” said Shaki. “The people here have helped us so much; not just professionally but personally, we have learned so much and can’t wait to come back.”
The Center of Excellence here at the 314th Airlift Wing, Little Rock Air Force Base is renowned for its C-130 training program, which instructs Airmen from the United States and 46 allied nations around the globe.
In true international partnership, three Israeli Air Force students graduated from the J-model Course on Oct. 29 and returned to Israel in order to train their countrymen and stand up their country’s first C-130J flying squadron.
“The relationships we’ve made here will help our country greatly,” said Lt. Col. Uri Shaki, inbound Commander of the Israeli Air Force 103rd Airlift Squadron. “We’re grateful for the training and friendships we’ve made here. We know this will be a long lasting relationship.”
Israel’s decision to upgrade their C-130 airplanes from the older E and H “legacy” models to the newer J models triggered the 314th AW’s newest training partners, said Shaki. Israel plans to employ the C-130J in similar fashion as the United States.
“Our mission back home will be similar to the ones here,” said Capt. Itamar Lavi, pilot for the IAF 103rd flying squadron. “Our main mission will be airdrop support and delivering supplies.”
The three-person crew spent more than four months at The Rock for their training, which included three phases: basic qualification, tactical employment, and flightline training. This tiered approach enabled the crew to learn the basic flight characteristics of the C-130J and quickly progress in understanding aspects of employment while training in world-class simulators.
The final phase culminated in hands-on flight training at the 48th Airlift Squadron where they practiced each procedure and maneuver.
The training was terrific, the crew said, noting that the simulators could be vexing.
Lavi said the simulator is a good thing because it builds confidence and helps one correct mistakes before flying an actual C-130.
Both the Israeli crew and the local instructors agreed the training was beneficial to members of both nations. “I’ve flown with Israelis previously,” said Maj. Jeremy Wagner, 314th Airlift Wing pilot instructor. “There was never a question of whether these guys could fly. It’s been great to help equip these guys with a program to train others. The opportunity to share what we know and give them the tools to teach has been amazing.”
“You can’t amount them (benefits of training here),” said Lavi. “Everything we learned here from American instructors has been great.”
“Training here, we feel that we are amongst friends,” said Shaki. “We learned a lot professionally of course, but we also learned a lot from the people here and about the Air Force. There was always something to learn; high and low level things. We built a strong relationship. We feel the people here want us to succeed.”
“By inviting aircrew members from countries like Israel to train with us, not only do we develop rapport with peers from other nations, but we are building a partnership capacity that allows us to develop, guide and sustain relationships for mutual benefit and security,” said Maj. Eric McEwen, 714th Training Squadron international military student training officer.
McEwen said the mission of building international partnerships involves a lot of teamwork, highlighted by the many Airmen it takes to keep the C-130 mission flying.
“We couldn’t do it without our civilian employees here in the 714th TRS, our contracted partners that work for Lockheed Martin at JMATS, as well our flight instructors in the 48th Airlift Squadron and our maintenance troops from the 314th AMXS that keep the planes in the air,” he said.
The crew stated that it is an honor to be the first fully trained and qualified C-130J crew in Israel. Each of them are proud of the opportunity they’ve been given.
“This is a big challenge,” said Maj. Royi Day, Commander of Navigators for the 103rd Flying Squadron. “Changes like these can take dozens of years. It’s a special feeling to be the first ones to learn this skill and teach our countrymen. This has a once-in-a-lifetime feel to it.”
The Israelis enjoyed their time at the base and in the local community, which they had a chance to explore, even witnessing a Razorbacks game several weeks ago.
“I love it here,” said Lavi. “It’s so relaxed and the nature is beautiful. We honestly didn’t know what to expect. We had traveled to the United States before, but only in better known places on the east and west coast. We were surprised in a good way here.”
“Our stay has been great here,” said Shaki. “It’s a great place for families for those of us, like me, who’ve had their wife and kids here. The people are warm and friendly. We have to thank the base for their hospitality and warmth.”
After their evaluation flight, the fully qualified C-130J pilots and navigator will return to Israel and begin the task of building their own training program for future Israeli C-130J crewmembers. The relationship between the IAF and the USAF is poised to continue, with Israeli loadmasters beginning C-130J training here soon and the country scheduled to receive its first J models next April. It’s a relationship that both the Israeli crew and the FTU instructors at the 314th hope to continue.
“We’ve enjoyed it so much, having them here,” said Wagner. “The training is mutually beneficial.”
“We look forward to working with the people here in the future, as we continue to develop our C-130J squadron,” said Shaki. “The people here have helped us so much; not just professionally but personally, we have learned so much and can’t wait to come back.”
CLASSIFIEDS>>12-6-13
ANNOUNCEMENTS
THE COMBAT AIRLIFTER CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to 404 Graham Rd., Jacksonville, Ark. 72078. You may also e-mail them to combatairlifterclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday's issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.
HORSES
HORSES: LUCKY Acres Boarding Stable, TLC for your horse, box stalls and paddocks, clean pastures, indoor and outdoor arenas, riding instruction and training program. Dressage our specialty. (501) 988-2458.
PETS
FOR ADOPTION: puppy needs a good home, black Polly mix, female. Call Jacksonville Animal Shelter for information. 982-2916.
FREE TO loving home, 2 cats, male & female, 2 yrs. old, current on shots & sterilized. (717) 405-2310.
AUTOS/ACCESSORIES
2006 TOYOTA Tundra Access Cab, black ext. w/gray int., V6, auto., A/C, 45k orig. miles, orig. paint, new tires/mags, Clifford alarm, Rhino Liner, Fit Rider bed cover, warranty, $16,000. (501) 580-1160.
2012 DODGE Charger SE, auto., V6, chrome wheels, leather interior, $19,983. 1-866-639-5337.
2011 JEEP Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4x4, auto., V6, leather, hard top, $28,634. 1-866-639-5337.
2008 PONTIAC Vibe, auto, 4-cyl., all power, 38,00 miles, $12,915. 1-866-639-5337.
2010 NISSAN Altima 2.5s, auto., 4-cyl., certified 7 yr./100,000 mile warranty, $14,517. 1-866-639-5337.
2012 CHRYSLER 200 S, auto, V6, alloys, sunroof, $16,330. 1-866-639-5337.
2008 FORD Mustang, auto., V6, leather, 47k miles, $14,140. 1-866-639-5337.
2009 FORD Focus SE, auto., 4-cyl., all power, $11,180. 1-866-639-5337.
2011 NISSAN Rogue SV, auto., 4-cyl., alloys, certified 7 yr./100,000 mile warranty, $18,302. 1-866-639-5337.
2006 TOYOTA Avalon, auto., V6, leather, sunroof, alloys, $15,040. 1-866-639-5337.
1991 CHEVY C/K 1500, lifted, 139,000 miles, new tires, remote start, no issues, great condition, $6,700. Pics. avail. Call/text (716)316-3420.
HEADLIGHTS FOR Nissan Titan, clear w/no damage, perfect condition, $60. Pics. avail. Call/text (716)316-3420.
2009 FORD Flex SEL, maroon w/white top, seats 7, 84k miles, priced below BB, $13,500. (501) 533-3225.
LAST CHECK stub delivers your new vehicle. Sales tax included. Free warranty. Build your credit - will report to credit bureau. Contact Terry Glenn @ (501) 801-6100, ext. 108 or (501) 266-2296.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
2011 HARLEY Davidson Street Glide, sedona orange, 9k miles, lots of extras, garage kept, $18,000. (910) 551-5218.
2007 BAYLINER 185BR 18' ski boat, many extras included, $9,800. (501) 650-5098.
ITEMS FOR SALE
GOLF CART trailer, $500. (501) 605-6892.
WASHER & dryer, both work perfect, no issues, can deliver, $350 obo. Call/text (716) 316-3420, Jax.
(2) 10" Kicker subs in box, brand new, barely used, $250 obo. Pics. avail. Call/text (716)316-3420.
CARPET, NEUTRAL color w/pad, 3 pieces, (2) 10.5x13, (1) 13.5x15.5, nice, no smoking or pets, $125. (501) 796-8174.
FURNITURE
MATCHING COUCH & chair, good condition, green, blue, burgundy & cream plaid, $200 obo.; solid oak entertainment center, holds up to 27" TV, good condition, $150 obo.; Can deliver within 50 miles of Cabot area for full asking price. Pics. avail. Call/Text (501) 941-8063.
HOUSES FOR RENT
Sherwood/Jacksonville areas. Beautiful 2, 3 & 4 Bedroom Mobile Homes. Large lots, in quiet safe park, close to LRAFB. Clean, quiet, & safe park. $425-$650 plus deposit. (501) 835-3450.
DECEMBER SPECIAL, $100 deposit! Jacksonville: mobile home in park. 3 bedroom/2 bath. $500-$575 per month. 501-744-4668.
DECEMBER SPECIAL, $100 deposit! Beebe: mobile home subdivision, 3 bedroom/2 bath on 1/2 acre lot, $550 per month. 501-744-4668.
Jax: $100 deposit, 1 bedroom camper in mobile home park, all utilities paid except propane. $350 per month. (501) 744-4668.
SHERWOOD, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage, fireplace, deck, convenient location, $1,050 per month, $750 deposit. Available 11/1. (501) 425-6610.
MOBILE HOME for rent, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, fenced, double carport on 2 acres. 3 1/2 miles from LRAFB. $400 month, $200 deposit. (501) 837-8061.
2 BEDROOM duplex, 3 miles north of LRAFB, full brick, super insulated, all appliances, dishwasher, washer/dryer, yard maintenance. Small pets (inside only!) $650. (501) 988-2929.
WARD: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage, 1300 sq. ft., close to 67/167 access & 15 minutes to base. Pets allowed with deposit, $900 month with 1st & last month's rent due at signing. (501) 590-9719.
CABOT: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, hardwood floors, 2-car garage, $850 month, $600 deposit, no pets, 1 year lease. (501) 231-5903.
SHERWOOD: FSBO, Stonehill subdivision, 1930 sq. ft., 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage, covered deck, fenced-in backyard, new stainless range, dishwasher & microwave, $182,900. (501) 960-6301.
2 BEDROOM, 1 bath house for rent near main gate of base. $800 month. (501) 213-6013 or (501) 831-0686.
Briefs>>12-6-13
Golf course closed until Monday
The Golf Course will be closed today through Sunday. To preserve the course, golf staff members have placed covers on the greens due to the freezing temperatures. The driving range will remain open since the golf ball dispenser is machine operated.
Medical Group closures planned
The 19th Medical Group will be closed on the following dates.
Noon to 4:30 p.m., Dec. 18 for training;
Dec. 25, in observance of Christmas;
Dec. 26, in observance of an AMC holiday, and Jan. 1 for New Year's Day.
Tax Center volunteers needed
The Tax Center is currently requesting volunteers for the upcoming 2013 tax season. If you are interested in becoming a Tax Center volunteer or have any questions about the VITA program, please call Capt. Timothy Bennett or Airman 1st Class Blake Johnson at the Legal Office at (501) 987-7886.
The Little Rock Air Force Base Tax Center will open its doors Feb. 4, 2014, for the 2013 tax season. During the 2012 tax season, the Little Rock AFB Tax Center completed 1,303 tax returns for Team Little Rock, resulting in refunds totaling $1.4 million.
All of these savings were made possible by volunteers who kept the Tax Center functioning. Tax Center volunteers are trained through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, receiving valuable education on completion of federal and state tax returns.
At the conclusion of the VITA training, volunteers qualify as certified tax preparers, a crucial skill for managing their own financial affairs. Whether answering phones or completing returns, volunteers are instrumental in meeting the tax filing needs for hundreds of active duty, reservists, dependents, and retirees from the surrounding area.
Training is tentatively scheduled for the week of Dec. 16.
Ordering CCAF transcripts
If you are ordering Community College of the Air Force transcripts, CCAF is experiencing technical difficulties. Two available options are:
1) Mail a letter to CCAF requesting a transcript which also will need to include your full name, the last four of your SSN, your Date of Birth, and the address you wish your transcript to be sent to. NOTE: Ensure the letter is physically SIGNED by the member to release their record. The address to CCAF is:
Community College of the Air Force
100 South Turner Blvd.
Maxwell AFB, Gunter Annex AL 36114-3011
2) Credentials, INC. does overnight and regular delivery using their service called TranscriptPLUS for a fee.
This service can be found at https://www.credentials-inc.com/cgi-bin/dvcgitp.pgm?ALUMTRO012308.
CCAF progress report available
The Student Degree Plan allows CCAF students immediate information, degree program status, degree requirements and student records. Members can obtain their CCAF Progress Report on their AF Virtual Ed Center.
Upcoming family-advocacy classes scheduled Dec. 9
The next 1-2-3 Magic parenting class will be Dec. 9 from 1 - 4 p.m. at the Family Advocacy office. Call 501-987-7377 for registration. Dad's 101 is a partenting class for new dads taught by dads and will be Dec. 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Family Advocacy Office. Call 501-987-7377 for registration.
TRICARE and new health care reform impact explained
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) is designed to expand access to health care coverage, by lowering costs, improving quality while expanding care coordination for all Americans. PPACA requires all citizens to have health insurance or other health care coverage that meets the definition of minimum essential coverage (MEC) by Jan. 1, 2014. People who do not meet MEC will be required to pay a fee when filing their 2014 tax returns.
TRICARE programs, to include Prime, Standard, Prime Remote, TRICARE Reserve
Select, TRICARE Young Adult, and TRICARE Retired Reserve meet the requirements of MEC as long as you maintain your TRICARE enrollment. You can access information on these programs at www.tricare.mil. However, there are two very small populations that do not meet the requirements of MEC under TRICARE: those receiving care for line of duty only related conditions and those that are only eligible to receive care in military treatment facilities.
Beneficiaries are required to maintain DEERS information at the Military Personnel Element, since DEERS determines your eligibility for TRICARE.
DEERS will be the source of information that will be accessed to validate that you and your family members have health care coverage that meets the definition of MEC.
The bottom line is PPACA will not impact TRICARE beneficiaries with the exception of an extra letter or two delivered to your home and the additional box to check on tax forms every year. If you need more information on this program please visit www.tricare.mil/aca.
The Golf Course will be closed today through Sunday. To preserve the course, golf staff members have placed covers on the greens due to the freezing temperatures. The driving range will remain open since the golf ball dispenser is machine operated.
Medical Group closures planned
The 19th Medical Group will be closed on the following dates.
Noon to 4:30 p.m., Dec. 18 for training;
Dec. 25, in observance of Christmas;
Dec. 26, in observance of an AMC holiday, and Jan. 1 for New Year's Day.
Tax Center volunteers needed
The Tax Center is currently requesting volunteers for the upcoming 2013 tax season. If you are interested in becoming a Tax Center volunteer or have any questions about the VITA program, please call Capt. Timothy Bennett or Airman 1st Class Blake Johnson at the Legal Office at (501) 987-7886.
The Little Rock Air Force Base Tax Center will open its doors Feb. 4, 2014, for the 2013 tax season. During the 2012 tax season, the Little Rock AFB Tax Center completed 1,303 tax returns for Team Little Rock, resulting in refunds totaling $1.4 million.
All of these savings were made possible by volunteers who kept the Tax Center functioning. Tax Center volunteers are trained through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, receiving valuable education on completion of federal and state tax returns.
At the conclusion of the VITA training, volunteers qualify as certified tax preparers, a crucial skill for managing their own financial affairs. Whether answering phones or completing returns, volunteers are instrumental in meeting the tax filing needs for hundreds of active duty, reservists, dependents, and retirees from the surrounding area.
Training is tentatively scheduled for the week of Dec. 16.
Ordering CCAF transcripts
If you are ordering Community College of the Air Force transcripts, CCAF is experiencing technical difficulties. Two available options are:
1) Mail a letter to CCAF requesting a transcript which also will need to include your full name, the last four of your SSN, your Date of Birth, and the address you wish your transcript to be sent to. NOTE: Ensure the letter is physically SIGNED by the member to release their record. The address to CCAF is:
Community College of the Air Force
100 South Turner Blvd.
Maxwell AFB, Gunter Annex AL 36114-3011
2) Credentials, INC. does overnight and regular delivery using their service called TranscriptPLUS for a fee.
This service can be found at https://www.credentials-inc.com/cgi-bin/dvcgitp.pgm?ALUMTRO012308.
CCAF progress report available
The Student Degree Plan allows CCAF students immediate information, degree program status, degree requirements and student records. Members can obtain their CCAF Progress Report on their AF Virtual Ed Center.
Upcoming family-advocacy classes scheduled Dec. 9
The next 1-2-3 Magic parenting class will be Dec. 9 from 1 - 4 p.m. at the Family Advocacy office. Call 501-987-7377 for registration. Dad's 101 is a partenting class for new dads taught by dads and will be Dec. 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Family Advocacy Office. Call 501-987-7377 for registration.
TRICARE and new health care reform impact explained
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) is designed to expand access to health care coverage, by lowering costs, improving quality while expanding care coordination for all Americans. PPACA requires all citizens to have health insurance or other health care coverage that meets the definition of minimum essential coverage (MEC) by Jan. 1, 2014. People who do not meet MEC will be required to pay a fee when filing their 2014 tax returns.
TRICARE programs, to include Prime, Standard, Prime Remote, TRICARE Reserve
Select, TRICARE Young Adult, and TRICARE Retired Reserve meet the requirements of MEC as long as you maintain your TRICARE enrollment. You can access information on these programs at www.tricare.mil. However, there are two very small populations that do not meet the requirements of MEC under TRICARE: those receiving care for line of duty only related conditions and those that are only eligible to receive care in military treatment facilities.
Beneficiaries are required to maintain DEERS information at the Military Personnel Element, since DEERS determines your eligibility for TRICARE.
DEERS will be the source of information that will be accessed to validate that you and your family members have health care coverage that meets the definition of MEC.
The bottom line is PPACA will not impact TRICARE beneficiaries with the exception of an extra letter or two delivered to your home and the additional box to check on tax forms every year. If you need more information on this program please visit www.tricare.mil/aca.
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